Carolina Parent Raleigh Nov-Dec 2018 by Morris Media Network

November/December 2018 • Free

173 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Celebrate the season across the Triangle – and beyond

Retro Rewind

A gift guide to popular ’80s toys

Birth Order

How might it impact your child’s personality?

PLUS Why Grandparents Worry Tips for coping with stress over grandkids and grown kids carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Pediatric Surgery Orthopaedics Neurology Diabetes Endocrinology Urology Pediatric Intensive Care Primary Care Urgent Care Radiology Pediatric Anesthesiology Cardiology Neonatology Perinatology Gastroenterology Emergency Medicine Ear, Nose and Throat Child Life Rehabilitation Weight Management

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Learn more at wakemed.org/kids.

VOLUME 30, NUMBER 10

CONTENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

FEATURES 14

2018 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Santa visits, tree lightings, parades, sleigh rides, festivals and more

22 WHY GRANDPARENTS WORRY Tips for coping with stress over grandkids and grown kids

MUST-SEE HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOWS Top picks for dazzling displays worth the drive

24 BIRTH ORDER How might it impact your child’s personality?

20 RETRO REWIND A gift guide to your favorite ’80s toys

IN EVERY ISSUE 5

November/

COLUMNS

CALENDAR

December Online

28 Growing Up

38 Our Picks

Editor’s Note

30 Understanding Kids

40 Craft Fairs

48 Faces and Places

32 Tech Talk

FYI

33 College Transitions

44 Daily

26 CONSIDERING PRIVATE SCHOOL? Tips from administrators for attending an open house

Community

10 Education 12

Performances

34 Father Figuring 36 Excursion

Health

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Evergreen photos courtesy of Kanea/Shutterstock.com. Holly images courtesy of Studio Barcelona/Shutterstock.com. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game image courtesy of Anna_elsewhere/Shutterstock.com.

ONLINE

Seasonal Magic MAKE AN ORNAMENT GAME NIGHT

Craft fragrant cinnamon Christmas tree ornaments. carolinaparent.com/craft-cinnamon-christmastree-ornaments

PLAN A SKI TRIP Explore ski and tubing resorts in or near North Carolina. carolinaparent.com/cp/where-to-ski-snowboardand-tube-within-a-short-drive

Reintroduce your kids to the games you once played. carolinaparent.com/ reintroducing-traditionalchildhood-games

HOT COCOA HAPPINESS Warm up holiday movie night by making one of these homemade hot cocoa recipes. carolinaparent.com/the-best-9-homemadehot-chocolate-recipes-ever

WIN PRIZES Enter to win prizes daily in our 12 Days of Giveaways contest Dec. 3-14. carolinaparent.com/cp/contests

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carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

EDITOR'S NOTE

Holiday Magic, Retro Toys and Grandparents

morrismedianetwork.com

PUBLISHER

Katie Reeves · katie.reeves@morris.com

EDITOR

Beth Shugg · bshugg@carolinaparent.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

he holiday season has arrived, and this year we’re combining our November and December coverage into one fun-filled issue. Our annual roundup of holiday events across the Triangle starts on page 14, so be sure to look through it for seasonal events and attractions your family won’t want to miss this year. We’ve so enjoyed celebrating our 30th anniversary that we decided to extend our retro coverage of the 1980s into our annual holiday gift guide on page 20. Believe it or not, a few 1980s toys have made a comeback, and you can even find some of the originals on eBay. Check out eight 1980’s throwbacksturn-comebacks and, if you so desire, four “nightmare-inducing” toys from the ’80s. (Remember the doll that inspired the movie “Child’s Play”?) Have you ever given any thought to how your child’s birth order may have affected his or her personality and approach to life? One reason siblings are so different is their birth order, says psychologist Kevin Leman, author of “The Birth Order Book.” Whether kids are born first, second, third or even farther down the line, birth order affects them in countless ways. Learn more on page 24. We focus on grandparents throughout this issue, and explore why many worry about their grandchildren — and their own children, even after they’ve grown up. Turn to page 22 for more on that.

Janice Lewine · jlewine@carolinaparent.com

ART DIRECTOR

Sean W. Byrne · seanwbyrne.com

DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Andy Smith · andy.smith@morris.com

DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Lauren Isaacs · lisaacs@carolinaparent.com

INTERN

Audrey Payne · apayne@carolinaparent.com

Our columnists also focus on grandparents in this issue. Find out how to help your child cope with the death of a grandparent on page 30. Read our Tech Talk checklist of 12 tips for grandkids who want to help their grandparents develop a better understanding of technology on page 32. And on page 33, discover how the college admissions process has changed since your child’s grandparents — your parents — went through this process. Our calendar section, which begins on page 38, includes holiday craft fairs and performances across the region, in addition to festive performances and daily events taking place Nov. 19-Dec. 31. Be sure to keep this issue handy as you plan and make holiday memories with family and friends during this “most wonderful time of the year!”

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Candi Griffin • cgriffin@carolinaparent.com Sue Chen • schen@carolinaparent.com Jen Pieh • jpieh@carolinaparent.com

ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR Julianne Clune · julianne.clune@morris.com

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Allison Hollins · allison.hollins@morris.com

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS PRESIDENT

DONNA KESSLER

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING DONALD HORTON

DIRECTOR OF PUBLISHING SERVICES KAREN FRALICK

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR CHER WHEELER

carolinaparent.com Phone: 919-956-2430 · Fax: 919-956-2427 5716 Fayetteville Rd., Suite 201, Durham, NC 27713 advertising@carolinaparent.com · editorial@carolinaparent.com Circulation 35,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Carolina Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman President & CEO William S. Morris III William S. Morris IV 2018 GOLD

Beth Shugg, Editor Editor’s photo courtesy of Morton Photography Candy canes photo courtesy of Antonova Ganna/Shutterstock.com Cover photo courtesy of FamVeld/Shutterstock.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

DECEMBER 1, 2018 Official Town of Cary

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Town Hall 6 p.m.

Santa’s Workshop Herbert C. Young Community Center 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. under 10 with adult

Letters to Santa Downtown Park Nov. 19-Dec. 9

Page-Walker Holiday

Open House Page-Walker Arts & History Center 3-6 p.m.

Cary Players Present

A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol Cary Arts Center 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

8th Annual Downtown

7th Annual

Downtown Cary All Day Dec. 1

Downtown Cary Dec.1-Jan. 2

Gingerbread House Competition

Gifting Tree Project

(919) 469-4061 | www.townofcary.org/joy

Discover your capable, confident Montessori child. Visit us online to RSVP for one of our upcoming events, or to book a tour. guidepostmontessori.com/spruce-tree 12600 Spruce Tree Way, Raleigh, NC 27614 (919) 825-1771

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Infant • Toddler Preschool • Kindergarten

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carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

FYI COMMUNITY

BY JANICE LEWINE

Hurricane Florence devastated parts of the Carolinas in September and many communities are still struggling to rebuild. To help in the relief efforts, Delta Dental of North Carolina has donated $10,000 to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund to help those directly impacted by the storm. Additionally, other member companies of the Delta Dental Plans Association from across the country have also contributed to help those in need in the Carolinas, bringing total contributions Photos courtesy of Kyle Griffin

to $110,000. These contributions were spread among the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, American Red Cross and Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina. In addition, Delta Dental of North Carolina donated 1,500 toothbrushes to the Triangle American Red Cross, which were distributed to area hurricane evacuation shelters. “We know that many of our fellow citizens are struggling to recover in the aftermath of the

Mia Hamm and Team First Soccer Academy Lead Local Youth Clinic

storm. It’s important for us to support the ongoing relief efforts,” says Curt Ladig, CEO of Delta Dental of North Carolina. Learn more at deltadental.com.

More than 150 Triangle-area girls took part in

Community-Designed Mini Golf Course to Open in Durham

the fourth annual Live Fearless Soccer Clinic

Durham’s American Tobacco Campus will soon have

hosted by BlueCross BlueShield NC on Oct.

a new tenant when Bull City Mini, the Triangle’s first

8 at Chapel Hill’s Cedar Falls Park. Olympic

community-designed pop-up golf course, opens in April 2019. The course will feature nine mini golf

gold medalists and Women’s World Cup

holes and obstacles, as well as a shipping container bar, and will remain open through next summer.

Champions Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly and

Husband-and-wife founders Julie Bryce and Ben Owens, both of whom live in Durham, were

Tisha Venturini Hoch, all of whom hail from

inspired by mini golf courses in San Francisco, Austin and Minneapolis. “The Triangle needs more

the Tar Heel State, taught the young players

recreation — activities that encourage you to get offline and get outside, put down your device and

soccer skills and encouraged them to forge

play. Mini golf is affordable, doesn’t require any special skills or preparation to play, and is fun for all

positive relationships and confidently pursue

ages” Owens says.

athletic endeavors. The participants, who

Artists and creative members of the community are invited to submit designs for one of the nine

were hand-selected for the clinic based on

mini golf holes or obstacles. Entries will be judged and winning submissions will be professionally

their outstanding sportsmanship, enjoyed

fabricated for durability. Submissions are due Dec. 19. Designers of selected holes will earn a $500

soccer training and breakout sessions,

stipend and be offered perks, such as free passes and exclusive invitations. To learn more about the

and also received a T-shirt, soccer ball,

design entry requirements, visit bullcitymini.com/events.

autographed card and group photo. “The Live Fearless Soccer Clinic is a highlight for Team First Soccer Academy every year,” says Hamm, a BlueCross BlueShield NC Live Fearless ambassador. “It’s a pleasure to teach the next generation of

STATS Hurricane Florence statistics in North Carolina: NUMBER OF PEOPLE RESCUED AND EVACUATED

ROADS CLOSED

5,214

150+

athletes to face challenges with bravery and

HOMEOWNERS AND RENTERS WHO RECEIVED FEMA HOUSING ASSISTANCE

fearlessly pursue their goals.” Learn more at teamfirstsocceracademy.com.

SOURCE: North Carolina Department of Public Safety (ncdps.gov/hurricane-florence-storm-statistics)

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Nearly 28,000

Photo courtesy of Rugged Studio/Shutterstock.com

Delta Dental Donates Funds and 1,500 Toothbrushes for Hurricane Florence Relief Efforts

Image courtesy of Zsschreiner/Shutterstock.com

Treatment Study for Alcohol or Marijuana Problems and Depression, ages 13-21 Study therapy provided at no cost; Compensation for assessments For more information, call 919.668.0065 or email aem65@duke.edu Pro00053448

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

FYI

Photo courtesy of Danielle Green

Nine Wake County public schools received visits from bluegrass bands this past September. The bands were in the area for the World of Bluegrass festival that is presented by the International Bluegrass Music Association each year in downtown Raleigh, and they were able to share information about bluegrass traditions and perform for designated elementary schools. Middle and high schools were treated to a one-hour master class for their strings students. Bands that visited the schools included Williamson Branch, Annie Savage & The Savage Hearts, Ben Hunter & Joe Seamons, and Che Apalache. Williamson Branch visited White Oak Elementary School in Apex. Danielle Greene, instructional facilitator at the school, says she and the students loved the cultural arts performance. Supported by The United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, the program furthers the IBMA’s goal of helping educators become more “bluegrass aware,” as it is one of the few music genres that originated in the U.S.

Community Service Leads to Scholarships for Triangle Students

Two local students have won scholarships for demonstrating a commitment to building a stronger community. Nicholas Julius and Amy Gallegos are among 23 students from across the country who received scholarships from Self-Help Credit Union, a financial organization that works

nationwide to create and protect ownership and economic opportunity for all. Established in 2015, the awards recognize proven leaders who have shown a commitment to community service and who strive to make a positive impact on the future. In addition to participating in community

service, applicants must submit an essay exploring topics that embrace the value of credit unions. Gallegos, a Durham Public Schools student, plans to major in child development at an instate college. She received a scholarship from the Self-Help Credit Union branch on West Main Street in Durham. Julius, now an adult, graduated from Johnston County Schools in Smithfield in 2009 and has volunteered for the American Red Cross disaster team and. He now attends Central Carolina Community College in Sanford with a major in emergency management. Julius received a scholarship from the Self-Help Credit Union branch on South Mangum Street in Durham.

Local Literacy Programs Receive National Honors The Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, a national organization that represents a collaboration of foundations, nonprofits, states and communities focused on third-grade reading, recognized Wake County’s WAKE Up and Read and Chatham Reads organizations for making measurable progress on key indicators of early school success among young students. Both Triangle organizations were recognized as “Campaign Bright Spots” for their successes. According to the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, students who read with proficiency by the end of third grade have a greater probability of graduating from high school than those who read below grade level.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Through its “Partners Read” program and as part of this campaign, WakeEd Partnership, an education nonprofit focused on transforming teaching and leadership modeling in Wake County Public Schools, worked with WAKE Up and Read, WCPSS’s literacy team and the local business community to bring volunteers to schools to read to children. In the four years of this program, 170 volunteers have read for more than 2,000 combined hours in 31 schools, and presented nearly 4,500 books to first- and second-graders in WCPSS. Chatham Reads teamed up with Chatham County Schools to expand an existing Bookmobile initiative by adding bilingual

books and funding a student support specialist to ride along and encourage parents. Communities in Schools of Chatham County and the Chatham County Literacy Council piloted a successful multigenerational literacy program improving caregiver engagement.

Photo courtesy of WakeEd Partnership

Wake County Students Treated to Bluegrass Performances

BY KAREN SHORE

Photo courtesy of Calvste/Shutterstock.com

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carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

FYI HEALTH

BY KATHERINE KOPP

Health Benefits of Being a Grandparent Research in several recent studies shows that

the Journal of the American Gerontological

caring for grandchildren can have proven

Society. It linked having more bonding

health benefits — including helping stave off

moments to a lower risk of depression

depression, boosting social connections and

among grandparents.

Emotional closeness — or “affinity” —

The Berlin Aging Study, consisting of data from 500 seniors, shows that those who babysat

between young grandchildren and their

for grandchildren in a noncustodial setting

grandparents protects against depression for

lived longer — and it didn’t matter whether the

both, according to a June 2016 study from Boston

grandchildren were their own or someone else’s.

University’s Department of Sociology. The study,

However, it should be noted that while taking

which used data from a long-term survey of

care of kids may keep older adults physically

families spanning several generations between

active and help relieve stress, overdoing this can

1985 and 2004, suggests that when young adults

cross a line and cancel out those health benefits,

and their elders enjoy strong relationships, both

according to the Berlin Aging Study.

suffer fewer symptoms of depression. Spending quality time with grandchildren

Spending time with loving and supportive grandparents is also beneficial for children,

Learn moreabout these studies by

while they are young improves mental health

according to the studies, because it provides

searching “grandparent caregivers” at

in elders, too, according to a 2014 study from

them with extra stability and emotional support.

academic.oup.com/gerontologist.

Photo courtesy of ProStockStudio/ Shutterstock.com

keeping older adults mentally sharp.

NC’s Healthiest Cities Keep food safety in mind when preparing

145 DEGREES: The internal temperature

your holiday meals this year. Here are some

of safely cooked beef, veal and lamb (steak,

guidelines for safe cooking:

roasts and chops).

165 DEGREES: The internal temperature

145 DEGREES: The internal temperature of

of safely cooked turkey and chicken

safely cooked fresh pork and ham (precooked

(maintaining this temperature helps prevent

ham needs to reach an internal temperature

food poisoning).

of 140 degrees).

160 DEGREES: The internal temperature of safely cooked egg dishes.

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

In a recent survey of more than 170 cities across the U.S., Raleigh ranked 27th overall, based on a methodology using 40 key indicators of good health. Raleigh’s total score was 54.12. The City of Oaks ranked 22nd in health care; 25th in healthy food options, habits and resources; 13th in fitness; and 69th in green space. Other North Carolina cities making the top 125 were Durham at 58, Charlotte at 70 and Greensboro at 117. For complete results, go to wallethub.

BY THE NUMBERS:

11%

com/edu/healthiest-cities/31072.

The amount of 10th-graders who have used e-cigarettes (“vaping”) in the last 30 days. This compares with 4.9 percent of 10th-graders who used tobacco cigarettes during the same time period.

SOURCE: pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2018/03/01/peds.2017-3557

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Katherine Kopp is a freelance writer in Chapel Hill.

Photo courtesy of George3973/ Shutterstock.com

Photo courtesy of Pranch/ Shutterstock.com

Cook Safely This Holiday Season

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Enter to Win an Asheville Winter Getaway

Come Celebrate your Smile with us!

Martha Ann Keels, DDS PhD Dylan S. Hamilton, DMD MS Explore all Asheville has to offer by entering to win a winter getaway to this beautiful North Carolina city, where you can enjoy a vibrant and walkable downtown, picture-perfect views of the surrounding snowy peaks, inviting restaurants and diverse hiking trails. This prize package, presented by Explore Asheville, is redeemable Jan. 1-March 31, 2019, and includes:

Photos courtesy of the Haywood Park Hotel, Hemingway’s Cuba and ExploreAsheville.com

• Two nights at the Haywood Park Hotel for a family of four, which includes daily breakfast at Isa’s Bistro. • Four passes to Conundrum for a kid-friendly escape adventure. • A $75 gift card to Well Played Board Game Café. • Four passes for an activity at The Adventure Center of Asheville (Includes Treetops Adventure Park, Zipline Canopy Tours, KidZip and KOLO Bike Park. Check for winter

and early spring days and hours, which fluctuate based on weather, groups, holidays, etc.). • Dinner for four at Hemingway’s Cuba. • A $50 gift card to Button & Co. Bagels (can be used for breakfast, brunch or lunch; opening this fall from James Beard-nominated Chef Katie Button of Curate and Nightbell. • A meal for four at Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack.

Enter to win by going to carolinaparent.com/cp/contests and clicking on the “Asheville Getaway” post. Type this code in the online form you’ll be required to fill out: AshevilleWinter2019. We’ll announce a winner Dec. 21, 2018. Good luck!

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2018 Holiday Happenings Santa Visits,Tree Lightings, Sleigh Rides, Parades, Festivals and More BY JANICE LEWINE

Christmas lights image by An ku4er/Shutterstock.com. Snowflake images by Marmarto/Shutterstock.com

elebrate the warmth and charm of the holiday season with your family at these events taking place across the Triangle throughout November and December. Mark your calendar now for parades, tree-lighting ceremonies, sleigh rides, Santa visits and more. Events are listed by town in chronological order, with the exception of the “Other Triangle Towns” section, which lists events in alphabetical order by town. Tickets for many events are on sale now. Be sure to check with event organizers before heading out, since plans can change based on weather or unexpected conditions. Events are free unless otherwise noted.

Apex

Cary

Sleigh rides, caroling and a tree-lighting ceremony highlight Christmas on Salem Street in downtown Apex Nov. 30, 5-9 p.m. The following day, families can enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Salem Street firehouse and take pictures with Santa at the Halle Cultural Arts Center in the afternoon before the town’s Christmas parade, which begins at 5 p.m. apexdowntown.com/ downtown-apex-events.

See 20 light displays illuminated by thousands of LED lights at the Chinese Lantern Festival at Booth Amphitheatre in Cary Nov. 23-Jan. 13, 6-10 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. The festival also features cultural performances and artisans. Purchase tickets, $15 for adults and $10 for ages 3-17, at boothamphitheatre.com/ nc-chinese-lantern-festival-cary.

The Halle Cultural Arts Center presents two holiday productions in December. Infinity Ballet performs “Dances of the Nutcracker” Dec. 1-2. Enjoy two musicals in one with “Last Minute Wishes” and “Karaoke Christmas” Dec. 7-9. Visit etix.com for show times and to purchase tickets.

Cary Players present “A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol” Nov. 30-Dec. 3 at the Cary Arts Center. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets, $20 for adults and $18 for kids. etix.com. The Town of Cary lights its tree in an event featuring handcrafted ornaments from more than 130 community groups, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.,

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

at Town Hall Campus. The ceremony also showcases musicians, singers and actors from the community. The Cary Arts Center hosts a Menorah Lighting Dec. 6, 5:30-6:30 p.m., and the town’s 24th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration is Dec. 28, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. townofcary.org. The Cary Jaycees hosts the 2018 Cary Christmas Parade Dec. 8, 1-5 p.m. See the website for the parade route. caryjaycees.org.

The Town of Cary’s tree-lighting ceremony is Dec 1. Photo courtesy of the Town of Cary

Cary Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker Suite” Dec. 15 at 11 a.m. at the Cary Arts Center. Purchase tickets, $12, at etix.com.

Chapel Hill North Carolina Symphony’s Holiday Pops Extravaganza concerts are Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 24 at 3 p.m. at Memorial Hall in Chapel Hill, featuring singalongs, falling snow and a chorus line of dancing Santas. Purchase tickets, $47-$70, at ticketmaster.com. Carolina Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” Dec. 1-2 at Memorial Hall in Chapel Hill. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets at carolinaperformingarts.org.

Talented dance students from Triangle Youth Ballet perform “The Nutcracker” Dec. 1-2 in Hanes Theatre at Chapel Hill High School and Dec. 8 at Carolina Theatre in Durham. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets at triangleyouthballet.com. Carolina Inn’s annual Twelve Days of Christmas event series Dec. 1-Jan. 2 welcomes families to dine with Santa on select days, enjoy train rides around the inn, take part in gingerbread house-making and more. carolinainn.com/ twelvedays-events. Themed floats, marching bands and Santa welcome families to the Chapel HillCarrboro Holiday Parade Dec. 8, which begins at 10 a.m. at Morehead Planetarium on E. Franklin Street in Chapel Hill and ends at noon at Carrboro Town Hall. townofchapelhill.org.

Durham Duke Chorale’s Christmas Concert, which features traditional carols for the audience to sing, and stories and special treats for children, is Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at Duke Chapel. Admission is one nonperishable food item for needy families in Durham. music.duke.edu/events/dukechorale-christmas-concert-2. The Durham Performing Arts Center presents several holiday shows in December. The modernday holiday classic “ELF: The Broadway Musical” is Dec. 4-9 at the Durham Performing Arts Center. See

the website for show times. An autism-friendly version of the show takes place Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. The Beach Boys perform Christmas songs and their timeless hits Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, a holiday extravaganza, is Dec. 18-19 at 7:30 p.m. “Hip Hop Nutcracker,” a contemporary re-imagination of Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic, is Dec. 20 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com. Step back in time to the 1800s as Duke Homestead in Durham hosts Christmas by Candlelight Dec. 7 and 14, 6:45-9:15 p.m. This annual event features costumed interpreters leading visitors on candlelit tours of the decorated homestead, storytelling and caroling around a fire. Tickets are $6 for adults, $3 for kids and free for ages 1 and younger. Purchase tickets online. dukehomestead.org/ christmas-by-candlelight.php. Enjoy Christmas at Historic Stagville in Durham Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. Learn about the Christmas traditions of enslaved and free people in North Carolina, and enjoy period music, live performances and crafts. stagville.org/events. The City of Durham hosts a holiday parade Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. on Main Street. A Holiday Fun Fest takes place later that afternoon, 1-4 p.m., on Blackwell Street featuring live entertainment, snow sledding, kids’ activities, vendors and a visit with Santa. Santa Paws,

The City of Durham’s holiday parade is Dec 8. Photo courtesy of City of Durham

a holiday celebration for canine friends offering photos with Santa and a holiday pet market, takes place Dec. 14, 6-8:30 p.m. The city’s Kwanzaa Celebration is Dec. 30, 2-5 p.m., at the Holton Career and Resource Center. dprplaymore.org. World-class Russian dancers, nesting dolls and giant puppets grace Carolina Theatre’s stage in Moscow Ballet’s ”Great Russian Nutcracker” Dec. 11-13, 7 p.m. Purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com. Barriskill Dance Theatre’s talented students perform “The Nutcracker” Dec. 14-16 in Reynolds Theatre at Duke University. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets at barriskilldance.com/ nutcracker. Christmas in the Piedmont During the Civil War at Bennett Place State Historic Site in Durham celebrates the season Dec. 15, 10 a.m.4 p.m., with living historians who demonstrate cooking and gift-wrapping processes from the 19th century. Santa visits with families during the event. Candlelit tours of the site take place 6-9 p.m. Tickets are required for the tours and are $3 for adults and $2 for ages 5-16. 919-383-4345. bennettplacehistoricsite.com.

Carolina Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” Dec. 29-30 at the Durham Performing Arts Center. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. carolinaballet.com.

Raleigh Enjoy holiday-themed floats, marching bands, local celebrities and large helium balloons at the ABC 11 Raleigh Christmas Parade Nov. 17, 9:30 a.m. The parade begins at the corner of Hillsborough and St. Mary’s streets downtown. grma.org/christmas-parade. Carolina Youth Ballet delivers the pageantry of the “The Nutcracker” alongside professional dancers from Carolina Ballet Nov. 17 at 1 and 4:30 p.m. in Fletcher Theater at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh. Purchase tickets at triangle-academydance.com/cyb-ticket-sales. Lafayette Village in Raleigh welcomes the holiday season with its Lighting of the Tree event, Nov. 17, 3:30-6 p.m., 8450 Honeycutt Rd., Raleigh. lafayettevillageraleigh.com. “Cinderella,” Raleigh Little Theatre’s holiday sugarplum, will be performed Nov. 30-Dec. 16. See the

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

website for show times and to purchase tickets. raleighlittletheatre.org/ shows/cinderella. North Carolina Symphony presents “The Merry Elf” Nov. 21 at 3 p.m. in Meymandi Concert Hall featuring music from “The Polar Express” and “Frozen,” plus a reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Visit with Santa in the lobby, and enjoy face painting and an Instrument Zoo before the show. Purchase tickets for $28 at ticketmaster.com. “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer: The Musical” lands at Fletcher Theater for performances Nov. 23-Dec. 24. Purchase tickets, $25 and up, at ticketmaster.com. Theatre in the Park presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Nov. 30-Dec. 9, and its 44th annual production of “A Christmas Carol” is Dec. 5-9 at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium in the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts and Dec. 12-16 at the Durham Performing Arts Center. See the website for all show times and purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com. Santa will be at the Sleigh Rides and Cider event at Historic Oak View County Park Dec. 1, 5-7:30 p.m., which also offers families horse-drawn carriage rides, handmade crafts, hot apple cider, live music and more. wakegov.com/parks/oakview.

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s holiday spectacle, “Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” takes place Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., at PNC Arena. Purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com. Carolina Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” Dec. 14-23 at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium in the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. carolinaballet.com. Mordecai Historic Park invites families to tour Raleigh’s oldest home and the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson during a lantern tour Dec. 8. One-hour tours run 5-10 p.m. and feature vignettes of the Mordecai family, soldiers and enslaved people during the Civil War. Purchase tickets for $5 per person at reclink.raleighnc. gov (click on “advanced search” and search for “Mordecai”) or by calling 919-966-4364. Mordecai Historic Park also hosts its annual Holiday Open House Dec. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Dec. 16, 1-4 p.m. Tour the home as it would have been decorated for Christmas during the colonial days through the World War II era. Admission is free. Raleigh Ringers’ Holiday Concerts at Meymandi Concert Hall take place Dec. 15 at 3 and 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 16 at 3 p.m. These festive concerts showcase unique interpretations of sacred, secular and popular music arranged just for handbells. Purchase tickets at rr.org.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

The renowned Raleigh Boychoir presents “Carols of Christmas” Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. at Edenton Street United Methodist Church. Purchase tickets, $10-$22, at raleighboychoir.org. Usher in 2019 at First Night Raleigh Dec. 31, 2 p.m.midnight, in downtown Raleigh. Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities prior to the Acorn Drop at midnight. A First Night button, $11, is required for entry. firstnightraleigh.com.

Other Triangle Towns Events are listed in alphabetical order by town. Benson’s Christmas on Main is Dec. 7, 6-9 p.m. It features a tree-lighting at 6:45 p.m., a parade at 7 p.m. and a visit with Santa after the parade, johnstoncountync.org/ event/christmas-on-main-inbenson/219.

Main Street in Clayton is transformed into a Christmas Village Nov. 29, 5:30-8 p.m., with live music, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 5:30-7:30 p.m., train rides and downtown businesses offering holiday refreshments. The town’s tree-lighting ceremony begins at 7:45 p.m. at Town Square. A holiday parade takes place on Main Street Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. townofclaytonnc. org/downtown-clayton/ christmas-village-tree-lighting. aspx and townofclaytonnc. org/downtown-clayton/ christmas-parade.aspx. Lights on the Neuse in Clayton is a 1-mile, tractor-pulled Christmas hayride through a magical extravaganza of holiday lights on select nights during November and December. The event also features a sweet shop and a visit with Santa. See dates and purchase tickets at lightsontheneuse.com.

Caroliina Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” Dec 14-23 in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. Photo courtesy of Armes Photography

Hubb’s Farm in Clinton presents “The Hubb’s Express and Santa Too!” Nov. 24, 5-10 p.m., featuring a ride on the Hubb’s Express Train, time with Santa, a showing of “The Polar Express” at 7 p.m. and more. Tickets are $20/person (free for ages 1 and younger), and must be purchased in advance online or by calling 910-564-6709. Tickets will not be sold at the gate. hubbsfarmnc.com.

Hayrides, crafts and live entertainment highlight Holly Springs’ Main Street Christmas Dec. 7, 6-8 p.m. Mrs. Claus reads stories at the cultural center and Santa visits with children at town hall until 7:15 p.m. The night concludes with a tree-lighting ceremony at 8 p.m. at the cultural center. The Happy Holly Days Parade takes place Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. on Main Street. hollyspringsnc.us.

Families in Fuquay-Varina can enjoy sleigh rides, a visit with Santa and an ice rink in the downtown district Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m., during the town’s annual tree-lighting ceremony. The annual Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade is Dec. 2 at 3 p.m. on Main Street. fuquay-varina.org and fuquay-varina.com.

During Christmas on First Avenue in Knightdale, Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m., families can enjoy a holiday fair featuring vendors, food trucks and live music. On Nov. 30, the town lights its tree during a festive celebration from 6-8 p.m. featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus and the head elves. The town’s Christmas parade is Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. knightdalenc. gov/departments/parksrecreation-and-culturalprograms/festivals-andevents/christmas-1st-avenue.

Garner’s Light Up Main event Nov. 30, 6-8 p.m., showcases a tree-lighting ceremony and visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Face painting, a local talent showcase and kids’ crafts round out the fun. The Garner Christmas Parade on Main Street is Dec. 1 at 2 p.m., where dance troupes, marching bands, decorated floats and Santa usher in the holiday season. garnernc.gov/ departments/parks-recreationand-cultural-resources/events/ light-up-main. The Hillsborough Holiday Parade is Dec. 2, 4:15-6:30 p.m., in the downtown district. hillsboroughchamber. com/pages/parade.

Four Oaks’ Christmas Celebration: A Fairytale Christmas on Main Street Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., includes a visit from Santa, children’s activities, vendors and the town’s annual Christmas parade at 11 a.m. fouroakschamber.com/news/ annualchristmasfestival. Morrisville’s Lighting of the Tree Nov. 30 at Indian Creek Greenway begins with a tree-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m., followed by musical entertainment, trackless train rides, crafts and visits with Santa until 9 p.m. townofmorrisville.org.

Hop aboard an open train car with all the trimmings when New Hope Valley Railway in New Hill hosts Santa’s Reindeer Roundup Express. Help Santa find his lost reindeer and take pictures with him during the ride. Trains run Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9 and 15, departing at 9:30 and 11 a.m., and 12:30, 2 and 3:30 p.m. Visit the website for prices and to purchase tickets. triangletrain.com. The Pittsboro Christmas Parade is Dec. 9 at 3 p.m. and features seasonal floats, tractors, vintage vehicles, Santa and more. pittsboronc.gov. Selma lights its tree Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. at town hall, just before the town’s evening Christmas parade that begins at 7 p.m. on Raiford Street. selma-nc.com/christmas. Smithfield’s Christmas Tree Lighting is Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. at the corner of Third and Market streets. Enjoy hot chocolate, live entertainment and an appearance by Santa. The annual Smithfield Christmas Parade takes place Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. on Market Street. smithfield-nc.com/ page/parks_holiday_events. The Lighting of Wake Forest takes place Nov. 30, 6-8:30 p.m., and includes performances by local choirs, Santa’s arrival in a Wake Forest fire truck, and the lighting of the town’s 30-foot Christmas tree at town hall on South Brooks Street. The Downtown Merchants Association hosts

a Holiday Open House on Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., when kids can enjoy free pictures with Santa and face painting at The Cotton Company Event Gallery on South White Street. The town’s holiday parade, featuring high school marching bands, more than 100 colorful floats and Santa, takes place Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. in downtown Wake Forest. wakeforestnc.gov. Take a covered wagon hayride through holiday lights, and enjoy bonfires, a jumping pillow, train rides and music at Hill Ridge Farms’ Festival of Lights in Youngsville Nov. 22Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. SundayThursday, and 4-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Admission is $10 for ages 2 and older Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; $12 for ages 2 and older Friday-Saturday; and $8 on Wednesday. hillridgefarms.com. Take the family for live holiday entertainment and a vendor market in downtown Zebulon on Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Kids can visit with Santa 3:30-5 p.m. Caroling and a tree-lighting ceremony take place 5-6 p.m. The Zebulon Christmas Parade is Dec. 2 at 2 p.m. zebulonchamber. org/holiday-happenings. Janice Lewine is the associate editor at Carolina Parent.

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Must-See Holiday Light Shows Top picks for dazzling displays worth the drive BY MYRA WRIGHT

Meadow Lights meadowlights.com 4546 Godwin Lake Road, Benson Admission: FREE, but train/carousel tickets are $2. Dates: Nov. 16-Dec. 30. Sunday-Thursday, 5-10 p.m.; and Friday-Saturday, 5-11 p.m. Meadow Lights is the largest and oldest Christmas light show in eastern North Carolina with lights on more than 30 acres. Visit the Old Country Store for old-fashioned candy, ride a train or carousel, and visit with Santa.

Eastern North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival boothamphitheatre.com/nc-chinese-lantern-festival-cary Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy., Cary Admission: $15 for ages 13 and older; $10 for ages 3-12; free for ages 2 and younger Dates: Nov. 23-Jan. 13, 2019. Tuesdays-Sundays, 6-10 p.m. Closed Mondays except for Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Booth Amphitheatre is transformed into a dazzling walk-through display with larger-than-life lanterns. Enjoy holiday treats and beverages from venue stands.

Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park zootasticpark.com 385 Ostwalt Amity Road, Troutman Admission: $7 for ages 2 and older; free for children under age 2. Dates: Nov. 21-Jan. 1, 2019. Sunday-Thursday, 6-9 p.m; Friday-Saturday, 6-10 p.m. A choreographed light show, petting zoo, s’mores, carousel, wagon rides and animal encounters highlight this attraction.

Western North Carolina

Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla pleasureislandoflights.com/christmas-flotilla.html Carolina Beach Admission: Free to spectators

Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings biltmore.com One Lodge St., Asheville

Photo courtesy of Steve Rankin

Photo courtesy of Denton Farm Park

Country Christmas Train at Denton Farm Park dentonfarmpark.com/country-christmas-train 4259 Handy Road, Denton Admission: $5-$15 ages 5 and older; free for ages 4 and younger. Additional fees for photos with Santa, a wagon and pony rides. Dates: Nov. 23-25 and 30, Dec. 1-2, 7-10, 13-16, 19-23 and 26-27. Friday-Saturday, 4:30-11 p.m.; other nights, 4:30-10 p.m. Enjoy a lighted walking tour of the park. Stop at the church to hear a Christmas story and then take a ride on the Handy Dandy Railroad. Enjoy a nativity movie, Christmas carols, a petting zoo, Santa’s cabin, arts and crafts exhibits, gingerbread house, doll museum and general store.

North Carolina Holiday Flotilla ncholidayflotilla.org Wrightsville Beach Admission: FREE Dates: Nov. 23-24 Enjoy Thanksgiving weekend at the beach during this two-day celebration. The fun kicks off Friday night with a tree lighting and visit with Santa at 5:45 p.m. at Wrightsville Beach Town Hall. On Saturday, take the kids to Festival in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and enjoy inflatable slides, a train ride, festival food and more. The lighted boat parade begins Saturday at 6 p.m. and is followed by a fireworks show. The best viewing is along Banks Channel.

Enchanted Airlie airliegardens.org/events-news/enchanted-airlie 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington Admission: $30 per car; $55 for large passenger vans Dates: Nov. 23-24, Nov. 30-Dec. 1 and Dec. 7-22. There are two runtimes each evening, 5-7 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Take a festive walking tour through Airlie Gardens to view a spectacular display of lights and holiday displays. Visit Santa and enjoy hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies, beer and wine for purchase. Advance tickets only. Tickets often sell out in early December.

Admission: $70-$90. Purchase tickets online. Dates: Nov. 3-Jan. 5, 2019, but not available Nov. 13, Nov. 22 and Dec. 24-25. See Biltmore Estate adorned in holiday splendor during an evening visit. A lit towering Norway spruce decorates the grand front lawn. Enjoy the many decorated Christmas trees inside the Biltmore House. In addition, there are 135,000 LED and mini lights sparkling around the estate. Visit Antler Hill Village & Winery for an extraordinary display of lights and wine tastings.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Photo courtesy of Tim McCulloh Photography

‘T

Dates: Dec. 8, 6 p.m. Boats decorated with thousands of lights cruise the Intracoastal Waterway for a festive display.

is the season for dazzling light displays. These seasonal light shows across the state — and beyond — will help bring out your family’s holiday spirit.

Lights Before Christmas riverbanks.org/events/lights-before-christmas.shtml Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, 500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia, South Carolina Admission: $10-$12. Ages 2 and under, free. Dates: Nov. 17-Dec. 30, 5-9 p.m. Closed Nov. 22 and Dec. 24-25. Enjoy nearly one million lights, animated images, visits with Santa, a bonfire, hot cocoa and s’mores.

Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort chetola.com 185 Chetola Lake Drive, Blowing Rock Admission: FREE Dates: Thanksgiving through mid-January, 2019. Chetola Resort is known for its sparkling display of lights each winter season. Drive or stroll around Chetola Lake and enjoy a bonfire by the water.

McAdenville (Christmas Town USA) mcadenville-christmastown.com Downtown McAdenville Admission: FREE Dates: Nov. 30-Dec. 26. Monday-Friday, 5:30-9:30 p.m.; and Saturday-Sunday 5:30-11 p.m. Experience the wonder of the season in Gaston County’s Christmas Town USA, a tradition since 1956. Walk or drive by the awe-inspiring displays of more than 375 decorated trees, 200 lit lamppost wreaths, music, a life-size Nativity scene and a lake fountain.

Holidays at the Garden dsbg.org Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Rd., Belmont Admission: Monday-Thursday, $7.95 for ages 2-12, $12.95 ages 13 and older. Friday-Sunday, $8.95 for ages 2-12, $14.95 for ages 13 and older. Dates: Open nightly Nov. 23-Jan. 6, 5-9 p.m. More than 600,000 lights and illuminated displays will shine across Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Roast a marshmallow, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, enjoy music and sip a warm beverage as you tour the displays, visit with Santa and more. New for 2018, enjoy the musically orchestrated topiary display and wander through the new, illuminated prairie garden.

Speedway Christmas charlottemotorspeedway.com/events/speedway-christmaspresented-by-disconnect-and-drive 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord Admission: $20-$30 for cars; $40-$50 for vans Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m. Closed Dec. 25. Experience more than 3 million lights synced to music while driving the 3.5-mile track at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Photo courtesy of Airlie Gardens

Photo courtesy of Booth Amphitheatre

Photo courtesy of North Carolina Arboretum

Photo courtesy of Chitola Resort

Photo courtesy of the Biltmore Estate

New this year is a Ferris wheel and train ride, plus an additional 2 miles of lighted trails. Have pictures made with Santa after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve. Photos with Santa and baby kangaroos are available for an additional cost, or take your own photo with Santa only at no additional charge.

Christmas Village is open Thursday-Sunday and includes a petting zoo, Bethlehem village and photos with Santa. You can also watch holiday movie classics, drive-in style, on a 16,000-square-foot screen on nights when the Christmas Village is open. Movies begin at 6:30 p.m. Tanglewood Festival of Lights forsyth.cc/parks/tanglewood/fol 4061 Clemmons Road, Clemmons Admission: $15 for cars, $35 for vans, $100 for buses Dates: Nov. 16-Jan. 1, 2019, 6-11 p.m.; and Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m. Drive through one of the largest and most spectacular light shows in the Southeast to see Tanglewood’s rolling countryside transformed into a winter wonderland. Stop by the Gift Village to roast marshmallows. See the website for more information about horse-drawn carriage rides and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum ncarboretum.org/exhibits-events/winter-lights 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville Admission: $18 for ages 12 and older; $12 for ages 5-11; free for ages 4 and younger Dates: Nov.16-Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m. Stroll through the arboretum gardens to enjoy more than 500,000 LED lights. Listen to favorite holiday tunes and sip warm beverages along the way. Myra Wright is a North Carolina-based freelance writer. She enjoys traveling and finding educational opportunities for her three kids.

ON THE LEFT: The Country Christmas Train at Denton Farm Park; McAdenville, aka Christmas Town USA; Tanglewood Festival of Lights; Chinese Lantern Festival; and Enchanted Airlie. ABOVE, left to right: Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings, Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort, Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum. carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

d n i w e R RetrGoIFT GUIDE TO 1980 TOYS S

A HOLIDAY

BY MANDY HOWARD

TEDDY RUXPIN e may not have had Fortnite dances or our own smartphones, but many Generation Xers would say there was no better time to be a kid than the 1980s. All of our shows had morals to every story and, more than anything, we didn’t want to grow up. We were Toys ‘R’ Us kids. Though we’re no longer able to shop at “the biggest toy store there is,” we can still find many of the era’s top hits — and some newer versions of popular toys from the 1980s.

Photos of toys courtesy of the product companies unless otherwise noted. Cassette tapes image courtesy of Falkovsky/Shutterstock.com

Everyone’s favorite talking bear is trying to make a comeback — with updated technology. In 1985, we were amazed as Teddy Ruxpin came to life and asked us, “Do you want to be my friend?” and then read to us from his signature storybook. He quickly became the best-selling toy by 1986, at a cost of around $70. You can get an updated version of Teddy Ruxpin that now comes with interactive features that sync to the Teddy Ruxpin app. wickedcooltoys.com. 2018 upgrade: Teddy Ruxpin, $99.99, wickedcooltoys.com.

NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM The original Nintendo unit jumped into our lives in 1985 and quickly became a top-selling toy during the second half of the decade. There have been quite a few system updates since then, but if you’re craving the nostalgic feel of the original, check out the newly released NES Classic Edition. The console is smaller, but the controllers are classic as are the games included with the system, like “Super Mario Bros.,” “Pac-Man,” “Donkey Kong,” “Metroid,” “The Legend of Zelda” and “Kirby’s Adventure.” The set with “Super Mario Bros.” cost $199.99 in 1985, but you can get this classic console for $59.99 at Target. nintendo.com/nes-classic. 2018 upgrade: Nintendo Switch, $299.99, nintendo.com.

BARBIE With just one Google search, you can go down a rabbit hole of Barbie’s past, present and future. Rediscover her careers, shape, weight, color, politics and even age, all of which have been reinvented over the years to keep up with pop culture trends. Although sales of Barbie products have dropped in recent years, it’s still a toy for the ages, according to media resources such as the Financial Times and CNN Money. Back in 1988, you may have purchased “Game Show Host” Barbie for $11.95. Today, get a Robotics Engineer Barbie for around $14 at Target. barbie.mattel.com. 2018 upgrade: Robotics Engineer Barbie, $14, target.com.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

GLO WORMS What child doesn’t think, “You know what would make me sleep better? Worms!” As odd as it may sound, Glo Worm — the green, worm-shaped doll with a light-up face — was all the rage in the 1980s, inspiring a cartoon and menagerie of Glo Friends you could also collect. Glo Worm was introduced in 1982 by Hasbro’s Playskool division for less than $20. 2018 upgrade: Fisher-Price Soothe ‘N Glow Seahorse, $15.99, fisher-price. mattel.com.

MICRO MACHINES

NIGHTMARE INDUCERS If you’re concerned that Monster High dolls are a little too bizarre, here’s a reminder of some of the disturbing toys we played with during the 1980s. Most of these toys are available on eBay or Amazon as collectibles.

Cassette tapes image courtesy of Tero Vesalainen/Shutterstock.com

Remember, “If it doesn’t say micro machines, it’s not the real thing.” Shop for these small-scale styles of playsets and vehicles from popular TV and movie series like “Star Trek” and “Star Wars” in the Amazon Micro Machines store. The brand, originally created in the mid-1980s by Galoob, is now part of Hasbro and going strong — after a few reboots over the years. Often sold as sets, Micro Machines prices varied wildly in the ’80s, and still do today. For example, you can buy a Micro Machines Star Wars Droids set on Amazon for $40, while The Amazing Spider-Man collection costs $8. amazon.com.

HOT WHEELS RACE SET There’s nothing quite like the gleeful squeal of die-cast cars zipping around and crashing into each other. Mattel’s Hot Wheels cars have been feeding the thirst for toy car collisions for more than 50 years. In 1989, you could get the Hot Wheels Criss Cross Crash Set for $39.99. 2018 upgrade: Hot Wheels Criss Cross Crash Trackset, $47.99, hotwheels.mattel.com.

My Buddy: This doll for boys created by Hasbro was viewed in a whole new light once it inspired the infamous “Chucky” doll for the 1988 movie, “Child’s Play.” Thanks to this hard-to-shake new reputation, Hasbro dropped the brand. Playskool picked it up, modifying his looks to break away from the “Chucky” stigma as much as possible. Find originals of the doll on eBay for around $50. The original song is still nice, though. ebay.com/bhp/my-buddy-doll. Midge, the Pregnant Barbie: The Barbie Midge and Baby Happy Family doll set originally required kids to pry Midge’s new baby off her body. A later version went to a simpler, magnetic system. Find her on eBay starting at $66.

THE REAL GHOSTBUSTERS ACTION FIGURES The cartoon “Real Ghostbusters,” a spinoff of the 1984 blockbuster comedy “Ghostbusters,” created a gold mine of toys. Kenner created the Real Ghostbusters line of toys in 1986, which offered everything from Ghostbusters action figures to the firehouse headquarters, to slime and proton packs. Back then, you could purchase a Venkman/Spangler combo pack for $11.99 through the Sears Wish Book. Today, you’ll need to scour Etsy or eBay and you’ll pay anywhere from $15 to $120 per figure. etsy.com and ebay.com. 2018 upgrade: Get a 6-inch Abby Yates, Erin Gilbert, Jillian Holtzmann or Patty Tolan figure for $19.99, amazon.com or walmart.com.

RISK AND OTHER BOARD GAMES Board games of all kinds have stood the test of time. “Candy Land,” “Operation” and “Chutes and Ladders” have been mainstays for family game night. But strategy games, like Risk and Dungeons and Dragons, are resurging in popularity. Original Risk games sold for $13.99 at stores like Montgomery Ward. Today you can get the board game at Target for $24.99. 2018 upgrade: Magic: The Gathering, sets vary in price, magic.wizards.com. Mandy Howard is a freelance writer and mother of three in Raleigh.

Madballs: What was a hit in the 1980s is back on shelves. With names like Slobulus, Fist Face and Buzz Off, Madballs are a series of foam balls with facial characteristics to match their names. Find them at most major retailers. Garbage Pail Kids: These trading cards produced by the Topps Company, originally released in 1988, included pictures with disturbing-looking children who had names like “Up Chuck” and “Adam Bomb.” The series relaunched in 2003 and has continued to make original cards ever since. Newer cards take jabs at pop culture stars and politicians. The cards are available at walmart.com.

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Grandparents Worry About Grandchildren, Too BY MYRA WRIGHT

Image courtesy of Coconea/Shutterstock.com

arents lose sleep for myriad reasons. During those first few weeks (or months) of a newborn’s life, moms and dads feel sleep-deprived because of 2 a.m. feedings. But once your bundle of joy sleeps a solid seven or eight continuous hours, new worries may emerge that can keep you awake. Is your child developing OK? Is he or she making friends at school? And the worrying doesn’t go away — parents worry just as much about grown children. But what about grandparents? Joyce Ann Brent of Raleigh says she worries equally about her 6-year-old grandson and her two grown daughters, Marie Slater of Mars Hill and Jennifer Lynn Brent of Dunn. “Yes, we definitely worry about our grandson, Zane, as much as we worried about our girls when they were little — and now as they are as adults,” Brent says. She worries primarily for their safety because of their professions. “When our girls were little we never thought about school or workplace shootings, and really never thought much about bullying situations,” Brent says. “We lived in a very small town in Ohio and that was never much of an issue. However, now as adults — Jennifer is a first-grade teacher and Jeanine is a clinical psychologist working in a male penitentiary — our concerns are definitely for their safety in their work environments.” HEADLINES DON’T HELP Brent also worries about Zane when he’s at school. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, students are concerned, too. In the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, published in June 2018, 6 percent of students nationwide did not go to school at least one day during the previous month because they felt it was unsafe.

“Our biggest worry with Zane is his safety during school hours,” Brent says. “Even taking him to the movies makes me very aware of exits and thoughts on keeping him safe.” It can be difficult for parents and grandparents to stay positive, especially given the near-constant headlines of school shootings and violence. “I try not to dwell on negative thoughts, but when another

shooting happens, it immediately comes to the surface,” Brent says. Her best advice for other grandparents is to stay optimistic and not worry so much about the “what ifs.” “It’s difficult to tell someone else how to manage their worries and concerns since we all handle stress in our own way, but I would try to impress a positive attitude,” she says. “Keep yourself as busy and productive as possible, and have someone you can share your concerns and fears with,” she advises.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

GRANDPARENTS ARE MORE INVOLVED One reason grandparents have more concerns is because they are helping with child care for working parents — oftentimes a financial necessity — or because grandparents are simply eager to be more involved. These changing roles create challenges, writes clinical psychologist Laura Smith in a Psych Central blog post at psychcentral.com titled, “Grandparent Anxiety.” “Grandparents want to help, and many times they must and should. At the same time, grandparents often harbor worries about how much help is too much,” Smith says. Communicating clearly with your grandchild’s parents about appropriate boundaries and discipline is crucial to reducing conflict and anxiety. TIPS FOR COPING WITH STRESS AND WORRY Despite parents’ and grandparents’ best efforts to stay positive, their deep love for their children and grandchildren is what creates everyday fears and concerns. The CDC offers the following tips to cope: • Avoid alcohol and drugs, which can create additional problems. • Find support from family, friends, a pastor or a counselor. • Stay connected socially, and plan fun activities with family and friends. • Take care of yourself by eating right, exercising and getting plenty of sleep. • Stay active by volunteering or helping a friend or neighbor. Staying involved and busy can help keep your mind off your fears. Myra Wright is a freelance writer who worries frequently about her three kids, ages 18, 15 and 10. Learn more about her at myrawright.wordpress.com.

Chapel Hill Pediatrics

&Adolescents

Welcome NEW and Established Patients • Care from birth through college •Complimentary “meet and greet” sessions • Same-day appointments • Comprehensive sports & camp physicals Elementary Open House November 14, 7:00 p.m.

Appointment hours

8 am - 5 pm M-F All Locations

Walk in Availability: Chapel Hill Ofﬁce:

7:15-7:50 am and 1-7 pm M-F; 9 am- 2 pm Sat-Sun

Preschool tours: Nov. 2, 9, 27 & 30; Dec. 7 & 11 Elementary tours: Nov. 6 & 29; Dec. 4 & 13

Durham Office: 7:15 -7:50 am M-F

Sign up online at www.raleighschool.org/admissions or send us an email at admissions@raleighschool.org 1141 Raleigh School Drive | Raleigh, NC 27607 www.raleighschool.org 919-546-0788

COMMUNITY. CHALLENGE. INQUIRY. RESPECT.

919-942-4173

Open daily including weekends and holidays. 2 locations

ENGAGING A CHILD’S INNATE CURIOSITY AND SENSE OF WONDER.

Chapel Hill: 205 Sage Road., Suite 100 Durham: 249 East NC Hwy 54, Suite 230

www.chapelhillpeds.com carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Birth Order

How might it impact your child’s personality? BY CHRISTA C. HOGAN

isa Southwick and her husband, Dan, parent six kids in Apex — five biological and one adopted. “I have often said how different my kids are,” she says, “which surprises me since five of my six kids are from the same two parents!” One reason siblings are so different is their birth order, says psychologist Kevin Leman, author of “The Birth Order Book” (Revell, 2009). Whether kids are born first, second, third or even farther down the line, birth order affects them in countless ways. For instance, studies show that firstborns perform better academically than their younger siblings. An October 2013 Duke University study titled, “Strategic Parenting, Birth Order and School Performance” suggests that “trickle down” parenting is one reason for the disparity. Parents have higher expectations and more stringent rules for firstborns in hopes that younger siblings will take note. While many exhausted parents can relate, Leman says other factors can also determine how birth order affects their child(ren). Mental or physical illness in one of the siblings, large age gaps, gender, adoptions and divorces all play a role. Therapist Meri Wallace, author of “Birth Order Blues: How Parents Can Help Their Children Meet the Challenges of Birth Order” (Holt Paperbacks, 2014), says that despite the many subtleties of families, kids who share a birth order often exhibit similar strengths and share common emotional challenges. Wallace says parents who recognize the validity of each child’s experience can help kids build self-esteem and alleviate sibling rivalry in the family.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

FIRSTBORNS Leman describes firstborns as either the first child born into a family or the first child of their gender. Only children also often share similar traits as firstborns. Leman says that the oldest child tends to receive the most attention and praise. However, parents of firstborns are the least experienced. Southwick can relate. “As new parents we were completely challenged by our firstborn,” she says. Leman says that firstborns tend to be natural leaders, reliable and conscientious. They also favor black-and-white thinking. Firstborns might prefer a sensible adult to their peers and act wise beyond their years. They also tend to be competitive overachievers. Perfectionism is a firstborn’s worst enemy, Wallace says. This is especially true since their inexperienced parents tend to have unrealistic expectations of them. “Some firstborn children go through life feeling that they cannot measure up,” Wallace says. “Lacking in confidence, they might drop out and refuse to compete altogether.” Wallace advises parents to avoid criticizing their firstborns or comparing them to others. Instead, she encourages parents to praise their kids’ efforts, even when they fail. “Emphasize the distinction between his performance and his value as a person,” Wallace says. Leman also advises that parents remember that their firstborns are still kids. As such, they shouldn’t be expected to fully care for their younger siblings or take on more than their share of work in the home.

LASTBORNS “These social, outgoing creatures have never met a stranger,” Leman says of the youngest family members. For lastborns, life is one big party. Since parents are less likely to punish lastborns, their siblings often accuse them of “getting away with murder.” Southwick has another take on the situation however. “My oldest is 27 and my youngest is 9,” she points out. “I’m parenting them in completely different worlds. Their personalities are different, too, and I’ve learned a lot. So I’m not going to parent them both the same way.” Despite what their siblings might think, Leman says lastborns live with great ambivalence. They are adored one minute, then left out and ignored as the baby the next. Leman, who was the youngest in his own family, says lastborns can carry this ambivalence with them into adulthood. However, youngest children can also be very stubborn and persistent, determined to prove that they can do anything. Wallace points out several ways parents can help lastborns thrive. Tension among siblings can trickle down to the youngest, who is least able to defend himself or herself. Parents need to be careful that older siblings aren’t dominating lastborns. Older siblings can quickly grow impatient with their youngest brother or sister, too.

Parents can support lastborns by helping siblings find developmentally appropriate ways for them to play together. To reduce resentment among siblings, parents can also include lastborns in all parts of family life, including chores. No matter what order your child was born in, unconditional love mixed with consistent discipline and customized parental oversight can help him or her become a kind, emotionally stable, contributing member of society who will hopefully someday follow your example when raising his or her own children. Christa C. Hogan is a freelance writer and local mom to three boys.

BIRTH ORDER QUIZZES Want to learn more about how birth order may be affecting you or your child? Try taking these online quizzes. Does Birth Order Affect Who You Are? webmd.com/parenting/rm-quiz-birth-order What’s Your Birth Order Personality parents.com/baby/development/social/quizwhats-your-birth-order-personality What Birth Order Personality Do You Have? gotoquiz.com/what_birth_order_ personality_do_you_have

CHILDREN’S BOOKS ABOUT SIBLINGS “The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo” by Judy Blume (Yearling, 1982) “The Pain and the Great One” by Judy Blume (Athenium Books for Young Readers, 1974) “Charlotte the Scientist is Squished” by Camille Andros (Clarion Books, 2017)

Images courtesy of Advent/Shutterstock.com

Photo courtesy of Absolute-india/Shutterstock.com

MIDDLEBORNS Leman says middle children’s personalities are the hardest to pin down. “They’ll be the opposite of the child above them in the family,” he says. “If the firstborn is very conventional, the second will be unconventional.” Southwick agrees. “When we had our secondborn, Kelsey, we were amazed at how much more easygoing she was than our firstborn,” she says. Leman says middleborns can be skilled diplomats and negotiators, but that they also march to the beat of their own drum. They form tighter relationships within a friend circle as a way to carve out their own place in the world. What middle children lack, however, is attention, Wallace says. Middleborns often report feeling overlooked and under appreciated. They compare themselves to their older siblings and feel inadequate and jealous. However, they also experience the pressure of younger siblings advancing in age behind them. Feeling this squeeze, middleborns can become attention seekers, Wallace says. They may dress or act flamboyantly, become people pleasers or clowns, or resort to negative behaviors. Wallace advises parents to reassure middleborns that although there are unique challenges to being a middle child, they are equally loved. Wallace also says spending special time with middleborns can reduce misbehavior and build self-esteem. Leman advises making sure middle children aren’t always stuck with the hand-me-downs, if possible. Leman also warns that middle children tend to be more secretive, so it’s important that parents listen carefully when they explain their views and feelings.

“Big Sister, Little Sister” by LeUyen Pham (Hyperion Books for Children, 2005) “My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother” by Patricia Polacco (Simon & Schuster, 1998)

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Durham Academy is one of the many private school options available to families in the Triangle. Photo courtesy of Durham Academy

Considering Private School? Tips for Attending an Open House BY ELIZABETH BRIGNAC

he Triangle area has 132 private schools.* Each one has developed its own particular approach to educating children and building character, so that’s 132 unique educational visions being offered to families across the Triangle. Families weighing private school options have a lot of digging to do to find the right place to educate their kids. One way to get a lot of information about a private school in one condensed package is to attend its open house. This is exactly what it sounds like. A school opens its doors in order to introduce potential students and their families to its community and approach to education. The experience varies from school to school and can tell families a lot about each institution. To help you approach this experience, we interviewed administrators who work at private schools across the Triangle to get

tips on how your family can get the most out of attending an open house. FINDING A FIT “The most important thing that parents can do in this process, I think, is to really find a school that fits their child and their family the best,” says Mary Golden, director of school programs at The Raleigh School. Victoria Muradi, admissions director at Durham Academy, agrees. “It really is about match,” she says. “It’s match between the academic piece; it’s match between the resources of the school; the philosophy in terms of your family values and what the school is trying to impart on kids … all those things need to line up.” Families should think ahead about what they want from a school and what their child needs so they can ask relevant questions at the open house.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

“Describe your child and ask about the opportunities for him or her at that school,” suggests Margaret Mills, director of enrollment management at Ravenscroft School in Raleigh. “That gives us the opportunity to really share what we’re able to offer that child and [to determine] if it seems like a fit.” LET THE SCHOOL INTRODUCE ITSELF “The opportunity for a family to visit a school is often the start of the relationship with the school,” Mills says. What does the school want to emphasize about itself at the start of that relationship? A school’s presentation choices can say a lot about its areas of emphasis. Who leads the campus tours and answers questions — administrators or students? How much time is given for families to ask questions? Can families meet and talk to teachers? What parts of the campus are

families invited to see? These details and others come together to show families what each school wants to emphasize about itself, which can tell parents a lot about the school’s values. THE CLASSROOM IN ACTION All of the school representatives interviewed for this article emphasize that it’s important for parents to observe in-session classroom time, either during the open house or while on a separate tour. Families can gain valuable information from seeing the levels of student and teacher engagement, and how the school’s mission plays out in the classroom. Some schools offer open houses during active school days, incorporating classroom visits into the event. Other schools hold evening open houses designed to give parents information about the school, and encourage families to tour the campus and visit classrooms during the day. Parents should note the degrees to which schools incorporate opportunities for families to observe in-session classes, then spend some time in an active classroom if this is allowed. SHOULD YOU TAKE THE KIDS? Schools differ on the question of whether to take prospective students to open houses. They tend to agree that young children can distract parents from focusing on details, but they differ in their suggestions as to

Some schools offer open houses during active school days so parents can get an inside look at how the schools operate. Photo courtesy of Triangle Day School

whether older elementary, middle and high school students should attend open houses. Muradi notes research indicating that parents frequently allow middle and high school kids to make the final call as to which schools they would like to attend. Accordingly, Durham Academy strongly recommends that students in grades five and older attend open houses and, more importantly, participate in “shadow days” — days on which prospective students attend class with assigned buddies to whom they can talk about issues that matter to them. Julia Taylor, assistant principal at GRACE Christian School in Cary, encourages students to attend open houses, but particularly favors shadow days. “They are going to gain more from speaking to their own peers than they will necessarily from sitting through a presentation,” she says. Deb Newlin, admissions director at Triangle Day School in Durham, feels open houses are more useful for parents than students, who engage better with separate tours of the campus. HOW TO PREPARE Before attending an open house, families should review the school’s mission statement and get a sense of what the school’s goals are. That way, they can use the open house to see how the school’s goals play out in campus life. In terms of practicalities, families should plan to find child care for any children too young to manage an hour or two without distracting their parents. They should plan to stay the whole time, since the presentations are designed to offer different kinds of information during different stages of the event. Some schools also suggest that families take notebooks or type notes on their phones about what they learn during their visit. FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS School visits are an essential step in the decision process for rational reasons — but also for reasons that are intangible. Newlin says the most important aspect of attending an open house is “trying to get the overall

One of the most important reasons to attend a private school open house is to get an overall feel of the school. Photo courtesy of Durham Academy

feel of the school. What is the atmosphere when you walk in the door?” School administrators and staff agree that it’s important for parents to pay attention to their instincts about what they see and experience at a school. Many details come together to form an impression that can tell families more than what an intellectual analysis can accomplish. “It’s one thing when you can look at all of the literature from a school. Most are going to share a lot of the same [kinds of ] information,” Taylor says, adding that this does matter. But she encourages parents to trust their feelings about a school as well. Families can often sense a good or bad fit. “I know a lot of our parents will say they just know when they walk in the door,” she says. * Total based on the combined number of private schools in Orange, Durham, and Wake counties as reported by Private School Review online at privateschoolreview.com. Elizabeth Brignac is a freelance writer and mother of two boys in Cary.

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

GROWING UP

Helping Kids and Canines Cohabitate Safely BY MALIA JACOBSON

don’t always give a clear sign they are annoyed. When dogs do show teeth, growl or even nip, we need to take a step back and examine what triggered the behavior.” Teach children to observe and respect a dog’s cues, and they’ll be safer not only around your family dog, but any other dog they meet.

iving with a pet can help curious little ones begin to develop empathy and kindness toward others. The results of a study conducted by the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition and researchers at the University of Cambridge in England suggest that kids even prefer their pets to their siblings, with dogs scoring the highest in relationship satisfaction. Here are some ways you can help kids and dogs live peacefully together from birth through the teen years.

TEEN YEARS

Image courtesy of Kudryashka/Shutterstock.com

EARLY YEARS Pup Prep For many dog owners, a smooth transition to new parenthood involves plenty of pet preparation. Start by taking your dog to the veterinarian for a routine health examination and necessary vaccinations. While you’re there, make plans to spay or neuter your pet. The Humane Society of the United States reports that sterilized pets are healthier, calmer and less likely to bite, making them better companions for little humans. If your dog isn’t exactly a model canine citizen, now is the time to act. Consult with an animal behavior specialist to address behavior problems like yipping, whining, leash-pulling and jumping. Although the thought of dog training may seem exhausting during new parenthood, your dog benefits from the extra attention and will be better prepared for life with an active toddler. Even older dogs can learn new tricks, so to speak, says Brad Howell, owner and head trainer of Red Beard Dog Training in Greensboro. “Training an 8-year-old dog to stop pulling on its leash is going to take more patience, but older dogs can settle into new, more desirable habits,” Howell says.

ELEMENTARY YEARS Behavior Basics By grade school, kids may be ready for a larger role in walking, training and feeding the family dog. Dogs pay attention to the people who feed them, so it’s a good idea to involve the kids, if possible, says certified trainer Wynona Karbo of Seattle’s Ahimsa Dog Training. “When a young child feeds a puppy or boisterous young dog, keep the dog behind a baby gate while the food is dispensed so the puppy won’t jump on the child during feeding and create negative habits,” she says. While dog training is important, it’s equally vital to ensure that your child knows how to behave around the dog, Howell says. “Far too many children (and plenty of adults) get away with completely unacceptable behavior toward dogs,” he says. “Pulling ears, climbing and jumping on, or any invasion of space isn’t a position a lot of dogs want to be in, even if they

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Teen’s Best Friend Whether you’re ready to add another canine to the family, or your older child wants his or her first puppy, the teen years can be a great time for a new, or new-to-you, family dog. Teens are old enough to independently walk and feed a dog, participate in dog training, even pick up pet food and ferry the dog to the vet or groomer. What’s the right dog for your family? Your local climate, favorite pastimes and activity level should factor into your choice, Howell suggests. Families with a passion for sailing or other watersports should look for breeds that enjoy the water. If you or your teen wants to hike or run with your dog, don’t choose a toy breed or one that can’t handle heavy exertion. If your teen’s heart is set on a large, active breed or a puppy, plan to commit hours to training, socialization and exercise. Don’t overlook an older dog as a companion for a busy teen, Howell says. “Sweet, lazy old dogs are the most underrated and overlooked adoptable dogs.” Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is “Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.”

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UNDERSTANDING KIDS

Helping Children Cope With the Death of a Grandparent BY LUCY DANIELS CENTER STAFF

elping a child understand the death of a grandparent is a painful challenge many families must cope with at some point. This particular topic can be uncomfortable and difficult for people of all ages, yet it is one children are best helped with in an open and honest way.

can prepare your children ahead of time with conversations that are honest about a grandparent’s age and health. Consider a conversation that starts like this: “Grandma is getting very old. You may have noticed that she is slower and more tired than she used to be. These are signs that her body is getting older and she is going to die soon. It happens to all living things.”

Image courtesy of hancik/Shutterstock.com

CULTURAL FACTORS How families choose to talk about life and death depends on a number of factors, including the family’s cultural beliefs and practices, and the current ages of the children involved in the discussion. Ideally, it is a conversation that evolves over time and weaves in losses that may be less significant, yet also important in thinking about this part of life — such as the death of a goldfish, or even flowers or plants. These smaller conversations lay the foundation that all living things have a lifespan with a beginning and an end. Children of all cultural backgrounds and ages benefit from a family’s openness to talk about questions and feelings that are uncomfortable or painful. Such topics are often not brought up directly by children; instead, they may wait until an adult indicates that they are open to talking and listening.

UNDERSTANDING THE LOSS IN CONTEXT Most of the time, a death in the family is related to old age and a child’s first exposure to this is around the loss of a grandparent. When you are able to, you

the context of your sadness, but also more about his or her own feelings. Young children may need additional reassurance about all of the parts of their life that will remain the same, and that sadness and interruptions in their routine are temporary.

ATTENDING FUNERALS The tradition of funerals is intended more for adults than children. Young children may not understand them, or may feel uncomfortable seeing so many adults crying — especially those on whom they depend for feelings of safety. If you are not able to be emotionally present to help your child understand what is happening at the funeral, ask someone else the child knows and trusts to assist and care for your child until you are able to be fully present.

COMING TOGETHER IN DIFFICULT TIMES Very young children are often comforted by the reassurance that death is not something they can “catch” from others and that adults, while they may feel sad, know and accept that it is a part of life.

UNDERSTANDING A PARENT’S SADNESS Children need help understanding why someone they usually view as strong and in control may be sad or crying. This can be frightening or unsettling, especially to very young children. Explaining why you are sad helps a child not only understand

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

As with all challenges and times of hardship, experiencing the loss of someone important can also be a time for strengthening your family as you come together and grieve. Children learn a lot from how adults handle life’s challenges, and the questions they raise will help you understand how your children think about and experience the world. The Lucy Daniels Center is a nonprofit agency in Cary that promotes the emotional health and well-being of children and families. Visit lucydanielscenter.org to learn more.

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www.cfsnc.org carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

TECH TALK

The Gift for Grandparents That Keeps on Giving

o you know a grandparent who is often frustrated with technology? Perhaps he or she doesn’t know how to navigate smartphone settings, or wants to be able to better organize computer files. When our team at The Social Institute was giving a presentation this year to parents and grandparents, the grandparents were the ones who stayed after to talk about how technology is one of their biggest frustrations. They told us they wish they could simply sit down with an expert who could show them the ins and outs. This holiday, consider encouraging your children to give their grandparent(s) a treasured gift that will keep on giving — the gift of understanding technology. After all, who better to give this priceless present than the people who seem to know the most about technology: kids and teens.

The Social Institute team created this holiday checklist of 12 tips for grandkids who want to help their grandparents develop a better understanding of technology. Share this list with your kids, then encourage them to give their grandparent(s) one of these gifts each day for 12 days — or one each month during 2019. Show your grandparent(s) how to: 1. Set up a group text they can use to stay in touch with family members. 2. Walk them through the privacy settings on their cellphone or smartphone. 3. Walk them through their privacy settings on Facebook. 4. Create their list of “favorite” phone contacts, so loved ones and close friends are only a click away.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

5. Show them how to activate “Do Not Disturb” and “Do Not Disturb While Driving” while still allowing “favorites” to contact them. 6. Show them how to edit a photograph by cropping it or adjusting the color. 7. Organize their photos by creating albums in the Apple, Windows or Google photo libraries. 8. Ask them about a challenge they have each week (setting reminders for grandkids’ events, finding TV shows, organizing medications, etc.), then research the App Store or Google Play Store to see if there is an app they can download to help solve their challenge. 9. Create an Instagram or Facebook account for your grandparent, then help him or her upload photos to the account(s). 10. Download FaceTime or Skype, then demo how to video chat. 11. Create a photo book on a website like Shutterfly or Snapfish, then offer to buy the book for your grandparent using your allowance. 12. Show your grandparent(s) (and parents) how you use social media in a positive way — by playing to your core strengths and posting photos that represent your character; by not posting embarrassing photos of friends or family; and by protecting your privacy as though you’re famous. Laura Tierney, a digital native who got her first phone at age 13, is founder and president of The Social Institute, which offers students positive ways to handle one of the biggest drivers of their social development: social media. She also recently became a mom. Learn more at thesocialinstitute.com.

Photo courtesy of Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com

BY LAURA TIERNEY

COLLEGE TRANSITIONS

From Grandparents to Grandkids: How the College Admissions Process Has Changed BY DAVE BERGMAN, ED.D.

Photo courtesy of Sirtravelalot/Shutterstock.com

oday, grandparents of college-bound teenagers have an experiential chasm that can complicate intergenerational understanding. Depending on the senior member’s age, his or her formative years may have involved the Vietnam War, black-and-white TV, and a robust job market in which only 10 percent of those employed possessed a four-year degree. Conversely, modern teens are growing up with the internet, social media and openworld video games that are literally rewiring their brains. They’re also growing up in a world where, in order to enter the majority of desirable professions, an advanced university degree is likely a prerequisite. With an aim toward facilitating meaningful conversations between grandparents and grandkids, let’s first explore how college has changed in recent decades. HIGHER TUITION As we get older, it’s easy to fall into a nostalgic trap on the subject of how much things cost (i.e. “When I was a boy, you could feed a family of four for a Buffalo nickel”). Yet, when it comes to lamentations about rising college expenses, there is actual data to back up the sticker shock. In 1950, the University of Pennsylvania charged $600 per year to attend — that’s roughly $6,000 in 2018 money. Today, the school’s annual cost of attendance is more than $75,000. By 1960, most private institutions charged $1,500-$2,000, which equates to $12,000$16,000 today. In the current marketplace, a $50,000 tuition fee would be considered “reasonable.” This is hardly just a private school phenomenon. UNC-Chapel Hill’s in-state 2018-19 tuition cost of $8,758 is one the best bargains in all of higher education.

Of course, this rate pales in comparison to the university’s average in-state tuition amount of 30 years ago — just $504 per year. (No, that’s not a typo.) CHANGES IN COMPETITION You don’t need to look back to the ’50s, ’60s or even ’70s to find a college admissions landscape vastly different from today’s hypercompetitive state of existence. In 1980, nearly half of all applicants were accepted into prestigious Swarthmore College. The class of 2022 had a 9 percent acceptance rate. As recently as 1990, the University of Chicago accepted 60-70 percent of those who applied. In 2022, just 7 percent were successful. For North Carolina-based examples, look no further than Davidson College, which admitted 18.7 percent of applicants in 2018 — close to half the success rate of two decades prior. At the dawn of the new millennium, Wake Forest University welcomed 49 percent of applicants, approximately double that of the 2018 figure.

HOW GRANDPARENTS CAN HELP On the pragmatic end, contributing to a grandchild’s 529 College Savings Plan starting when he or she is very young can make a monumental impact. Unlike mutual funds and many other traditional savings vehicles, earnings in a 529 account grow tax-free and are never subject to any taxes, as long as the money is ultimately used for educationrelated expenses — which aren’t limited to college tuition. Room and board, textbooks and nontraditional postsecondary paths, such as enrollment at a technical school, are covered as well. Beyond monetary contributions, perhaps the most essential contribution a grandparent can make to his or her grandchild’s post-secondary futures is the gift of perspective. The college admissions game is so all-consuming and high-stakes that many young people, understandably, develop tunnel vision and experience high levels of stress during the college admissions process. It is here that a grandparent’s wisdom can be a godsend. A reminder of what really leads to a fulfilling and successful life — hard work, consistency, loyalty, honesty, love, creativity and kindness — can help mitigate the stress of admissions mania and assist a grandchild in navigating this challenging time in his or her life. Dave Bergman, Ed.D., is a co-founder of College Transitions, a team of college planning experts committed to guiding families through the college admissions process. He is also co-author of “The Enlightened College Applicant: A New Approach to the Search and Admissions Process.” Learn more at collegetransitions.com.

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

FATHER FIGURING

“I Need a Bra!” BY PATRICK HEMPFING

, I   .” If I had a son, I’d buy him a jockstrap when he

So how did we resolve this difference? Well, I don’t have a Havanese running around the house in neon-colored bras.

needed one and life would move on. However, bra

With Mattie and Jessie still debating … and the problem

shopping falls under my wife’s job description. The

growing — faster in Jessie’s eyes than Mattie’s — there was

only problem is that Mattie, my wife, and Jessie, my 10-year-old

only one logical thing to do: Ask Grandmommy for advice. It

daughter, are on opposite sides of the fence about whether Jessie

seemed logical to ask Mattie’s mom since her sewing lesson got

is old enough to need one — and poor Dad, aging way too fast, is

us into this predicament. Not to mention, Grandmommy is my

stuck in the middle.

emergency hotline and it was time, way past time, to call.

Up to this point, I’ve tried to keep a low profile and hoped this

Grandmommy talked with Jessie. Then she spoke with Mattie

whole topic would blow over. However, a few weeks

and proposed a win-win solution — a bra-shopping

ago it became clear that it wouldn’t. Jessie went

day with her granddaughter. At the end of

to her room with a needle, thread, scissors

their special grandmother-granddaughter

and pair of cotton pants she wore as a

shopping excursion, Jessie came bursting

toddler. Grandmommy, a good teacher,

through the door, anxious to show

recently showed her granddaughter

her mom and me the new treasures

how to sew, and Jessie, a quick study,

Grandmommy purchased for her —

cut the pants and sewed them into a

four colorful bras, including regular

makeshift bra.

and sports styles.

When Mattie came home from

Grandmommy saved the day!

work, Jessie modeled her new bra

Mattie and I were both happy that

for her mom. Mattie and I were both

Jessie and her grandmother had this

impressed with her resourcefulness.

special time together, a shopping trip

Mattie, enjoying the debate, praised Jessie’s

they’ll always remember. And I’m glad the

tenacity, but told her she still didn’t need a bra.

school principal won’t be calling me.

“Mattie, we can’t let Jessie go to school wearing a pair of pants as a bra,” I countered. No dad wants a phone

Jessie’s perspective on the right time to buy a bra can be summed up in one word: now. This answer is likely

call from the principal saying his daughter’s sewing came undone,

different for each family. For mine, it was, “When Grandmommy

and that she’s upset that the pants she wore as a bra are no longer

says so.”

keeping things in place. As I drove Jessie to school the following morning, the bra topic

Life is back to normal … with only a few extra bras in the laundry basket. On occasion, when I fall behind with laundry,

came up again. Jessie would also like another dog. Just to find out

Jessie will handwash her bras. She’ll sling them over the shower

how badly she really wanted a bra, I posed the question, “Jessie, if

curtain rod to dry. I’m just thankful she’s not strapping them onto

you could get a new dog or a new bra, which would you choose?”

the dog, well, not too many times, so far.

Jessie responded, “I’d choose the bra, because I have no chance for another dog.” I smiled at her clever and accurate response. Then I took my

Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44.

questioning one step further. “Jessie, if I’d be willing to buy either

He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad, and author of

one, which would you like more?”

“MoMENts: A Dad Holds On,” available on Amazon.

“Dad, I’d like a Havanese, wearing lots of bras in my size … and neon.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Image courtesy of AF Studio/Shutterstock.com

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carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

EXCURSION

10 Reasons to Visit the Omni Homestead Resort Over the Holidays BY ADRIAN H. WOOD

ucked in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia is The Omni Homestead Resort, a historic hotel that opened in 1766 and caters to families throughout the year.

But winter is especially magical. My family made the drive, less than five hours away from the Triangle, when the Allegheny Mountains were blanketed in white snow to embark on a fun, long weekend in this beautiful region of Virginia. 1. SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING. With more than 45 acres of wide, well-maintained trails, the Homestead’s slopes are perfect for beginners and not-so-beginners. Group and private lessons are offered at Sepp Kober Ski School for children and adults. Little ones ages 5-11 can also learn the basics of skiing by participating in the Little Penguins Program, which includes hot cocoa and plenty of fun in the snow. 2. SNOW TUBING. The Penguin Slides Tubing Park is right next door to the slopes, and it’s where your entire family can enjoy all the classic thrills of sledding without having to trudge back up the hill. The Omni Homestead Resort’s tubing park features well-groomed lanes and the Penguin Express, a new conveyor that carries tubers back up the hill. Participants must be age 5 or older and 48 inches or taller. 3. SNOWMOBILING. My family’s favorite activity — and a brandnew offering this year — is snowmobiling just for kids. The Omni Homestead Resort has added mini snowmobiles to the Mountain

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

Lodge this year. Children ages 6-12 are welcome to take a whirl around the lodge on snowmobiles made just for them. 4. ZIP LINING. The Red Tail Racer, for ages 8 and older, is a dual zip line extending 1,300 feet from the ski area’s mid-station to the resort’s lodge, providing an opportunity for solo zips or side-by-side racing through the incredible Allegheny Mountains at speeds of up to 35 mph. The Red Tail Racer is part of the Ridge Runner Zip Tour that offers eight zip lines spanning more than 4,000 feet at heights of up to 79 feet off the ground. 5. POPCORN AND MOVIE NIGHTS. Watch football in the family-friendly bar area near the lobby or go bowling in the game room before taking advantage of nightly popcorn and movies in the turn-of-the-century Homestead Theater, which typically offers show times at 7 and 9:30 p.m.

6. INDOOR POOL. The Homestead’s historic indoor pool was built in 1904 and is fed by the naturally warm, mineral spring waters where the resort was founded. Open year-round and located adjacent to the resort’s spa, the indoor pool is the perfect place to wrap up a day on the slopes. During warmer months, enjoy a large outdoor pool and the resort’s Mountain Rush, featuring two 100-foot water slides (for riders at least 48 inches tall). You can also take a leisurely float along the 400-foot lazy river. Kids will also love the water play zone and sandy beach. 7. HOMESTEAD HOLIDAY EXPRESS HAYRIDE. Take a trip on the Homestead Holiday Express Hayride, during which participants enjoy singing, hot chocolate and s’mores. 8. SANTA CLAUS FUN. Santa will be on location awaiting your child’s letters. Be sure to get a family keepsake photo with Santa, and join his elves in the lobby every evening for bedtime stories during a pajama party that will not disappoint. 9. HOLIDAY ARTS AND CRAFTS. Families can choose from a variety of fun holiday items to create and take home, and you can sign up the entire family for the jigsaw puzzle contest or gingerbread house decorating event. Each gingerbread house is made from scratch in the resort’s pastry shop, where festive cookies are also baked and made available for decorating — and eating, of course.

10. OMNI HOMESTEAD RESORT KIDSCLUB. For children ages 3-12, The Omni Homestead Resort KidsClub offers a variety of fun and well-supervised activities. Families can sign up children for half- or full-day activities, as well as a “Kids Night Out” if a parents’ date night is on the agenda. Learn more about The Omni Homestead Resort and its holiday itinerary at omnihotels.com/blog/homestead-for-the-holidays. Adrian H. Wood, Ph.D., is a North Carolina writer who lives in Edenton with her husband and four children, the youngest of whom has extra-special needs. Read more of her writing at talesofaneducateddebutante.com.

PICTURED ABOVE: The Omni Homestead Resort offers a majestic winter escape for families. PICTURED ON LEFT: Find ski slopes for every skill level at the Omni Homestead Resort. Kids can try out mini snowmobiles — new this year at the resort. Snowboarding is also popular on many of the resort’s slopes.

Photos courtesy of the Omni Homestead Resort

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

OUR PICKS BY JANICE LEWINE

“Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party” Dec. 5-9 Join Mickey Mouse and his friends as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map in the hunt for Tinker Bell in Disney on Ice’s newest adventure, “Mickey’s Search Party,” at PNC Arena in Raleigh. Travel to Coco’s fantastical world, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, sing along with Elsa in her icy world, and watch as Woody, Photos courtesy of Feld Entertaintment

Jessie and Buzz Lightyear lend a hand in the search for the beautiful fairy. Visit ticketmaster.com for show times and to purchase tickets, $13 and up. PNC Arena is at 1400 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh.

Santa Paws | Dec. 14 Take your four-legged friend to a special holiday event at the Durham Armory, 6-8:30 p.m. Santa Paws, hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation, offers canines and their owners photo opportunities with the North Pole’s most famous resident, dog-friendly games, a pet market and food vendors. Admission is free. The Durham Armory is at 212 Foster St.,

Photo courtesy of Durham Parks and Recreation

Photos courtesy of Viorel Sima/Shutterstock.com

Durham. dprplaymore.org/324/santa-paws.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 “OUR BODY: The Universe Within” Through March 31 Photo courtesy of "OUR BODY: The Universe Within"

Discover the inner workings of the human body in “OUR BODY: The Universe Within,” an international touring exhibit making a stop at Triangle Town Center in Raleigh. “OUR BODY” showcases anatomical displays, preserved bodies, reproductions of historic anatomical artwork and more. The self-guided tour includes four touch specimens and is suitable for all ages. Tour times are Saturday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Purchase tickets, $15-$17, at ourbodyraleigh.com. Children ages 4 and younger are free; an adult must accompany all children under the age of 12.

First Night Raleigh | Dec. 31 Ring in 2019 in style when 20 city blocks of downtown Raleigh light up with extraordinary performances, rides and interactive activities on New Year’s Eve. Presented by Artsplosure, First Night Raleigh features dozens of family-friendly activities beginning at 2 p.m. on Bicentennial Plaza, the People’s Procession through downtown Raleigh at 6 p.m., and the countdown to an early drop of the Raleigh Acorn and fireworks show at 7 p.m. at City Plaza. The excitement continues when the acorn is lowered again at midnight. Purchase a First Night Raleigh pass, $11 per person, in advance at area locations listed on firstnightraleigh.com. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults, $11 for ages 6-12, and free for ages

Photos courtesy of Artspolsure

5 and younger with a paying adult.

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIRS BY JANICE LEWINE

HANDMADE HANUKKAH MARKET

SOUTHERN CHRISTMAS SHOW

Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Temple Beth Or, Satisky Hall, 5315 Creedmoor Rd., Raleigh. hanukkahmarket.com.

Nov. 8-18. Sunday and Tuesday, 10 a.m.6 p.m.; all other days, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Tickets are $4-$13 in advance, $4-$15 at the door. FREE for ages 5 and younger. Parking at the center is $8 cash only. The Park Expo and Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Rd., Charlotte. southernchristmasshow.com.

CAROLINA INN HOLIDAY MARKET Dec. 2, 9 and 16, noon-5 p.m. Carolina Inn, 211 Pittsboro St., Chapel Hill. carolinainn.com/twelvedays-events.

Photo courtesy of Adisa/Shutterstock.com; ornamental letter S courtesy of Ventura/Shutterstock.com

ST. NICHOLAS EUROPEAN MARKETPLACE tart your holiday shopping early by visiting craft fairs taking place Nov. 23-Dec. 8. Search our calendar at carolinaparent.com for “holiday fairs” to find more crafting events in the Triangle. Craft fairs are free unless otherwise noted.

Dec. 7, 5-9 p.m.; Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. North Carolina State Fairgrounds, Holshauser Building, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. facebook.com/saintnicholasmarket.

CHRISTMAS CAROUSEL HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET

Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 9, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Register online for FREE admission; $2 at the door for ages 13 and older. Durham Armory, 220 Foster St., Durham. geekcraftexpo.com/gce-rdu-holiday-2018.

Nov. 23-24, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $9/adult, $5 ages 6-12. FREE for ages 5 and younger. Jim Graham Building, North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. christmascarousel.com.

CARY ACADEMY HOLIDAY SHOPPE Nov. 29, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Nov. 30, 10 a.m.8 p.m.; and Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cary Academy, 1500 N. Harrison Ave., Cary. caholidayshoppe.com.

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY SHOPPE CRAFT SHOW Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 940 Carmichael St., Chapel Hill. eventbrite.com/e/christmas-holiday-shoppecraft-show-tickets-50616697906.

ELF MARKET Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The ArtsCenter, 300-G E. Main St., Carrboro. artscenterlive.org/outreach/elf-market.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR Dec. 1, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Cleveland High School, 1892 Polenta Rd., Clayton. clevelandhigh.band/2018-bazaar-reg.

GEEKCRAFT EXPO RDU HOLIDAY MARKET

HOLLY DAYS EXTRAVAGANZA Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 2, 11 a.m.4 p.m. Admission is $2/person. Sanderson High School, 5500 Dixon Dr., Raleigh. sites.google.com/view/sandersonhollydays.

SCANDINAVIAN CHRISTMAS FAIR

CRAFT FAIRS FARTHER AFIELD HOLLY DAY FAIR

Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $7. FREE for ages 12 and younger. Holshouser Building, North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. scanfair.org.

Nov. 1, noon-8 p.m.; Nov. 2-3, 9 a.m.8 p.m.; Nov. 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $10. The Crown Expo Center, 131 E. Mountain Dr., Fayetteville. hollydayfair.com.

WAKE FOREST HOLIDAY ARTISANS MARKET

HOLIDAY MARKET BY GILMORE SHOWS

Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Renaissance Centre, 405 Brooks St., Wake Forest. artswakeforest.org.

Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 3, 9 a.m.7 p.m.; Nov. 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults and $1 for ages 6-12. FREE for ages 5 and younger. Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro. gilmoreshows.com/holiday_market.shtml.

THE BAZAAR CRAFT AND ART MARKET Dec. 2, noon-5 p.m. 140 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill. thebazaar.us.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

MISTLETOE MAGIC HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW Nov. 10, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $4/ person and FREE for ages 12 and younger. Crystal Coast Civic Center, 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City. crystalcoastnc.org/location/ mistletoe-magic-holiday-gift-show-2.

‘TIS THE SEASON HOLIDAY FAIR Nov. 16-17, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 18, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $5/person. FREE for ages 11 and younger. WNC Ag Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher. wncholidayfair.net.

WINTERFEST ARTISAN MARKET Nov. 30, 5-8 p.m.; Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Dec. 2, noon-5 p.m. Jacksonville Commons, 100 Recreation Lane, Jacksonville. jacksonvillewinterfest.com.

POPLAR GROVE PLANTATION ARTS, CRAFTS AND GIFTS SHOW Dec. 7 and 14, 5-8 p.m.; Dec. 8 and 15, noon-8 p.m.; Dec. 9, and 16, noon-5 p.m. Admission is $5/person. Poplar Grove Plantation, 10200 U.S. Hwy. 17 North, Wilmington. poplargrove.org/festivals/ amerrylittlechristmas.

SOUTHPORT WINTER CRAFT FESTIVAL Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Franklin Square Park, 105 E. West St., Southport. downtownsouthport.com/winter-craft-festival.

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

PERFORMANCES BY JANICE LEWINE

NOTE: Performances covered in this issue include those starting the week of Nov. 19 through Dec. 31.

HAPPY DAN THE MAGIC MAN PERFORMS Nov. 21 and Dec. 19 – Renaissance Centre, 405 Brooks St., Wake Forest. 10 a.m. $5/ person. Happy Dan performs magic, comedy and more for all ages. wakeforestrencen.org.

NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY PRESENTS “THE MERRY ELF” Nov. 21 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 3 p.m. $28/person. A playful elf stumbles upon the best place to find holiday cheer — the North Carolina Symphony. This family fun concert includes music from “The Polar Express” and “Frozen,” plus a reading of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Before the show, visit with Santa in the lobby, enjoy face painting and check out the Instrument Zoo. ticketmaster.com.

NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY PRESENTS “HOLIDAY POPS EXTRAVAGANZA” Nov. 23-24 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 23; 3

p.m. Nov. 24. $35-$65. This heartwarming spectacular features seasonal favorites plus a singalong, falling snow and a chorus line of dancing Santas. Before the show, visit Santa and enjoy the sounds of strolling carolers in the lobby. ticketmaster.com.

“RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL” Nov. 24-Dec. 24 – Fletcher Theater, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $15-$50. The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage with favorite characters Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and Rudolph. ticketmaster.com.

“JOSHUA LOZOFF: LIFE IS MAGIC” Nov. 24 – The ArtsCenter, 300-G E. Main St., Carrboro. 8 p.m. $20/person. See the masterful illusionist combine magic with amazing mental feats. Purchase tickets online. artscenterlive.org/performance/josh-lozofflife-is-magic.

MISHPACHA PERFORMS Nov. 25 – Quail Ridge Books, 4209-100 Lassiter Mill Rd., Raleigh. 2 p.m. FREE.

Eclectic Raleigh quartet Mishpacha mixes folk, rock, blues and jazz with dashes of klezmer, flamenco and classical in this delightful Hanukkah concert. quailridgebooks.com/event/mishpacha18.

NORTH CAROLINA THEATRE PRESENTS “ALADDIN AND HIS WINTER WISH” Nov. 29-Dec. 2 – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $25-$49. Based on the Aladdin fairytale of a street rat with a dream, this holiday-themed production follows the style of the traditional British pantomime with magic, comedic twists, contemporary music, and more. All ages. nctheatre.com/shows/aladdin-winter-wish.

INFINITY BALLET THEATRE PRESENTS “DANCES OF THE NUTCRACKER” Nov. 30-Dec. 2 – Halle Cultural Arts Center, 237 N. Salem St., Apex. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $8/person. Clara and her Nutcracker Prince come to life in Infinity Ballet Theatre’s presentation of the classic holiday ballet. etix.com.

“A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS” Nov. 30-Dec. 9 – Theatre In The Park, 107 Pullen Rd., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $12/person. Charlie Brown and his friends discover the true meaning of Christmas in a stage production of the television special. A sensory-friendly performance takes place Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. theatreinthepark.com/whats-on/a-charliebrown-christmas-2018.html.

CARY PLAYERS PRESENT “A 1940 S RADIO CHRISTMAS CAROL” Nov. 30-Dec. 3 – Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $20/ adult, $18/student. Enjoy a festive comedy mixing heart-tugging wartime pathos with a live radio play presentation that is sprinkled with delightful music from 1940’s-era swing arrangements, Christmas carols and standards, and fun original songs. caryplayers.org/shows/a-1940sradio-christmas-carol.

Photo courtesy of The Raleigh Ringers

The Raleigh Ringers present “A Holiday Concert” Dec. 15-16 at Meymandi Concert Hall.

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 “CINDERELLA” Nov. 30-Dec. 16 – Raleigh Little Theatre, 301 Pogue St., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $26-$30/person. This holiday sugarplum features elegant costumes and scenery with singing, dancing, conniving step-relatives, and resourceful fairy folk. raleighlittletheatre.org/shows/cinderella.

TRIANGLE YOUTH BALLET PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER” Dec. 1-2 and 8 – Performances Dec. 1-2 are in Hanes Theatre at Chapel Hill High School, 1709 Chapel Hill High School Rd., Chapel Hill. Performances Dec. 8 are at Carolina Theatre, 309 W. Morgan St., Durham. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $10-$27/person. The Triangle Youth Ballet performs the holiday ballet in its entirety. triangleyouthballet.org/the_nutcracker.html.

“A CLAYTON CHRISTMAS” Dec. 1 – The Clayton Center, 111 E. Second St., Clayton. 7 p.m. See the website for fees and to purchase tickets. Comedy, songs of the season and Christmas carols highlight this

concert presented by the Around Town Singers and Orchestra. theclaytoncenter.com.

“ELF: THE MUSICAL” Dec. 4-9 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $28.50 and up. Enjoy the story of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. An autism-friendly performance takes place Dec. 8 at 10 a.m.; tickets are $28-$103/person. ticketmaster.com.

“IRA DAVID WOOD III’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL” Dec. 5-9 and 12-16 – Performances Dec. 5-9 take place at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. Performances Dec. 12-16 take place at Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $37 and up/person. Ira David Wood III’s musical comedy, now in its 44th year, is an adaptation of the Charles Dickens’ classic. ticketmaster.com.

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS “MICKEY’S SEARCH PARTY”

CAPITAL CITY GIRLS CHOIR WINTER CONCERT

Dec. 5-10 – PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $13 and up/person. Join Mickey Mouse, Captain Hook, Moana, Belle, Elsa, Aladdin, Ariel and others in a magical celebration on the ice. ticketmaster.com.

Dec. 8 – Meredith College, Jones Auditorium, 3800 Hillsborough St., Raleigh. 7:30 p.m. See the website for fees. The choir performs its annual winter concert for audiences of all ages. capitalcitygirlschoir.org.

RAGS TO RICHES THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES PRESENTS “THE FROG PRINCE” Dec. 5 – Century Center, 100 N. Green St., Carrboro. 10:30 a.m. $3/person. Enjoy the Brothers Grimm fairytale about a young princess who receives a lovely gold ball from her father as a prize but loses it in a river not far from her castle. See what happens when a frog offers to retrieve the ball for her in exchange for a few favors. carrbororec.org.

“LAST MINUTE WISHES” AND “KARAOKE CHRISTMAS” Dec 7-9 – The Halle Cultural Center, 237 N. Salem St., Apex. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. Enjoy two musicals in one performance. etix.com.

TRIANGLE WIND ENSEMBLE PRESENTS “‘TIS THE SEASON” Dec. 9 – Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. 3 p.m. $15/adult, $5/child. Seasonal favorites and new discoveries highlight the ensemble’s winter concert. townofcary.org.

“JOY OF THE SEASON” Dec. 11 - Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 7:30 p.m. $27-$38/person. The N.C. Master Chorale, NCMC Chamber Choir and chamber orchestra perform familiar carols, classical gems and new favorites. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

“MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER” Dec 11-13 – Carolina Theatre, 309 W. Morgan St., Durham. 7 p.m. $30 and up/person. Larger-than-life puppets, Russian-made

City Ballet presents "The Nutcracker" Dec 14-15 at Stewart Theatre. Photos courtesy of City Ballet

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Photo courtesy of ncsymphony.org

On Dec. 23, North Carolina Symphony presents "A Candlelight Christmas," an evening of classical music uplifted by the voices of the North Carolina Symphony Children’s Chorus at Meymandi Concert Hall.

online; event day tickets are subject to availability. rr.org.

See a contemporary re-imagination of Tchaikovky’s timeless music. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

THE JOHNSTON COUNTY CHORUS PRESENTS “A CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR” Dec. 15 – The Clayton Center, 111 E. Second St., Clayton. 2 p.m. See the website for fees and to purchase tickets. The Johnston County Chorus presents its annual holiday show featuring favorite seasonal songs and skits. theclaytoncenter.com.

costumes and a 60-foot magical Christmas tree highlight the Moscow Ballet’s holiday treat. Purchase tickets online. carolinatheatre.org.

TRANSSIBERIAN ORCHESTRA PRESENTS “THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS EVE” Dec. 12 – PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh. All ages. 7:30 p.m. $43-$75. The rock opera features enduring fan-favorites, including “Come All Ye Faithful,” “Good King Joy” and “This Christmas Day.” Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

CARY TOWN BAND PRESENTS “WINTERFEST ‘18” Dec. 14 – Cary Senior Center, 120 Maury O’Dell Place, Cary. 7:30 p.m. Free. Celebrate the season with favorite carols and a singalong. townofcary.org.

BARRISKILL DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER” Dec. 14-16 – Reynolds Theater, Duke University, 125 Science Dr., Durham. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. Barriskill Dance Theatre School presents its annual production of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet. barriskilldance.com/nutcracker.

THE RALEIGH RINGERS PRESENT “A HOLIDAY CONCERT” Dec. 15-16 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 3 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15; 3 p.m. Dec. 16. $20/adult, $11/student. Experience The Raleigh Ringers as they dazzle audiences with unique interpretations of sacred, secular and popular music, including famous rock ‘n’ roll tunes arranged just for handbells. Purchase advance tickets

RALEIGH BOYCHOIR PRESENTS “CAROLS OF CHRISTMAS” Dec. 21 – Edenton Street United Methodist Church, 228 W. Edenton St., Raleigh. 7 p.m. See the website for fees and to purchase tickets. The Raleigh Boychoir sings yuletide favorites. raleighboychoir.org/concerts.

“CIRQUE DE NOEL”

“THE BEACH BOYS’ REASON FOR THE SEASON TOUR” Dec. 17 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. 7:30 p.m. $54 and up. Hear The Beach Boys perform their timeless classics and seasonal favorites. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

“MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS BY CHIP DAVIS” Dec. 18-19 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. 7:30 p.m. $45 and up. Grammy Award-winner Chip Davis delivers a holiday show for all ages that features Mannheim Steamroller's Christmas classics. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

“HIP HOP NUTCRACKER”

Dec. 21-22 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 8 p.m. Dec. 21; 3 and 8 p.m. Dec. 22. $18-$70. See stunning aerial feats, mind-boggling contortions and jaw-dropping juggling acts, accompanied by favorite festive music by the North Carolina Symphony. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY PRESENTS “A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS” Dec. 23 – Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. 7:30 p.m. $45-$70. Enjoy an evening of classical music written in sacred celebration and uplifted by the North Carolina Symphony and the voices of the North Carolina Symphony Children’s Chorus. Purchase tickets online. ticketmaster.com.

Dec. 20 – Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. 7:30 p.m. $35-$55.

CARY BALLET PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER” Dec 14-15 – Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. Cary Ballet students present the holiday story of Clara, her heroic nutcracker, the evil Mouse Queen and Clara’s colorful friends. etix.com.

Dec 14-15 – Stewart Theatre, 2610 Cates Ave., Raleigh. See the website for show times and to purchase tickets. $15-$30/person. City Ballet presents the full-length, richly costumed holiday ballet featuring guest artists from Carolina Ballet. city-ballet.com/tickets.

The Raleigh Boychoir presents “Carols of Christmas” Dec. 21 at Edenton Street Methodist Church .

carolinaparent.com | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Photo courtesy of Mark Manning

CITY BALLET PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER”

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

NOTE: Calendar coverage starts Nov. 19, when our combined holiday issue begins delivery to pickup locations, and extends through Dec. 31.

DAILY

22 THURSDAY

NOVEMBER 19 MONDAY Specialized Recreation: Greek Gyros. Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 3:45-5:15 p.m. $19/resident, $24/nonresident. Children with special needs make gyros, a popular pita wrap. Ages 11 and older. Register online. Choose course #116723. classweb.townofcary.org.

20 TUESDAY Park Tales: “Sarah Gives Thanks.” Historic Yates Mill County Par, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. All ages. 11 a.m.noon. FREE. Learn Sarah Hale’s story and make fun Thanksgiving-themed crafts. All ages with adult. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill. Specialized Recreation: Outdoor Skills. Bond Park, 801 High House Rd., Cary. 4-5 p.m. $10/resident, $13/ nonresident. Ages 11 and older with special needs learn basic outdoor survival skills. Register online. Choose course #116958. classweb.townofcary.org.

Gobbler’s Run. Downtown Wake Forest. All ages. 8 a.m. $15-$30. Take part in a 5K. Proceeds benefit the Wake County Boys & Girls Clubs. Register online. gobblersrun.com.

23 FRIDAY School’s Out Art and Yoga Workshop. Little Guru Kids Yoga and Creative Arts, 215 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $45/child. Ages 6-10 enjoy art and yoga. Register online. littlegurukidsyoga.com.

24 SATURDAY “North Carolina and World War I.” North Carolina Museum of History, 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. FREE. View more than 500 artifacts, period photography, historical film footage, a trench diorama, educational components and video re-enactments that feature North Carolina soldiers and citizens who provided extraordinary service to their country 100 years ago. ncmuseumofhistory.org/exhibits/ nc-world-war-one.

21 WEDNESDAY

25 SUNDAY

Field School: Pilgrims at Play. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh. 10:30 a.m.noon. $6/child. Learn about the first Thanksgiving. Play 17th-century games, learn to talk like a pilgrim and create a first Thanksgiving food collage to take home. Ages 7 and older. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill. Track Out Art and Yoga Workshop. Little Guru Kids Yoga and Creative Arts, 215 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $45/child. Ages 6-10 enjoy art and yoga. Register online. littlegurukidsyoga.com.

“North Carolina and World War I.” See Nov. 24. Noon-5 p.m.

26 MONDAY Kids Get Crafty: Growing Gratitude. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 11 a.m.-noon. FREE. Make a craft to celebrate thankfulness. Materials provided. All ages with adult. Meet at the Cardinal Shelter. Registration not required. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | carolinaparent.com

27 TUESDAY

DECEMBER

Adventures in Orienteering. Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pkwy., Morrisville. 1-3 p.m. FREE. Learn how to find your way using only a compass and a map. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree. Project Enlightenment Workshop: Understanding Your Shy or Anxious Child. Project Enlightenment, 501 S. Boylan Ave., Raleigh. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $22/person, $33/couple. Learn how to help manage a child’s emotions. For families with children ages 3-6. Register online. projectenlightenment.wcpss.net.

1 SATURDAY

28 WEDNESDAY “North Carolina and World War I.” See Nov. 24. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

29 THURSDAY Tots on Trails: Deer. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 10-11 a.m. $8/resident, $10/nonresident. Ages 1-5 and caregiver take a relaxing stroll to experience nature. Register online. Choose course #117303. classweb.townofcary.org.

30 FRIDAY Crowder by Night: Seasonal Scavenger Hunt. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Road, Apex. 4:305:30 p.m. $1/person. Take the whole family to enjoy a crisp autumn night searching for clues focused on nature and nighttime critters. Sip on hot apple cider and make a fall craft. All ages with adult. $1/person. Registration required. wakegov.com/parks/crowder. Pecan Day at the State Farmers Market. State Farmers Market, 1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh. All ages. 11 a.m.1 p.m. FREE. Enjoy a free pecan dessert and pick up locally grown pecans for holiday celebrations. ncagr.gov/markets/ facilities/markets/raleigh/promos.htm.

Birding With Vernon. Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Pwky., Morrisville. 8:30-10 a.m. FREE. Join our bird enthusiast Vernon for an easy walk while looking and listening for feathered friends. Discover different types of birds and their habitats. Meet at the Waterwise Garden. wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree. Calling for Owls. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 4:30-6 p.m. $3/person. Ages 3-5 with adult hear an owl story, make a craft and go outside to call owls. Register online. Choose course #228005. reclink.raleighnc.gov. “Create Together” at Marbles: Elf’s Tailor Shop. Marbles Kids Museum, 201 E. Hargett St., Raleigh. 2-4 p.m. $20/ member, child-adult pair; $25/member, child-adult pair. Ages 8 and older make their own elf shoes and hat, get dressed and spread some cheer. Register online. marbleskidsmuseum.org/classes-andworkshops. Winter Wildlife Wonderland. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 1-5 p.m. $26/resident, $34/nonresident. Ages 6-10 enjoy nature activities. Register online. Choose course #117090. classweb.townofcary.org.

2 SUNDAY

CALENDAR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Family Yoga. Little Guru Kids Yoga and Creative Arts, 215 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. 4-5 p.m. $18 for two family members; $10/additional family member. Enjoy a session of family yoga. Ages 3 and older. Register online. littlegurukidsyoga.com. Junior Naturalist: Winter Mammals. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 1-2 p.m. $8/resident, $10/nonresident. Participants develop their naturalist skills and understanding of local nature. Ages 5-8 with parent. Register online. Choose course #117110. classweb.townofcary.org.

3 MONDAY Fun in the Kitchen: Holiday Cupcakes. Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 5-7 p.m. $35/resident, $46/nonresident. Learn to make holiday cupcakes. Ages 11-17. Register online. Choose course #116732. classweb.townofcary.org. Parent/Child Clay Workshop: Snow People. The Clay Studio, 1058 W. Club Blvd., Durham. 10-11:30 a.m. or 4-5:30 p.m. $15/child. Parent and child create a ceramic snow person using coils and pinch pots. Register online. durhamarts.org. Smiles With Santa. Southern Village Pediatric Dentistry, 410 Market St., Chapel Hill. 4-6 p.m. FREE. Enjoy a free picture with Santa, light snacks and more. Registration required online. svpediatricdentistry.com/ smiles-with-santa.

4 TUESDAY

6 THURSDAY

“Forest Tracks.” Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh. 10:30-11 a.m. $2/child. Enjoy the story by Dee Dee Duffy, make animal tracks and explore the outdoors. Ages 18 months3 years with adult. Register online. apm.activecommunities.com/wakeparks/ activity_search/3449. Nature Families: Pine Tree Party. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 11 a.m.-noon. $1/person. Explore evergreen trees and learn how they help the habitat. All ages with adult. Meet at the upper pavilion. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

What’s in the Box? Animals. North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. 9:15, 10:15 or 11:15 a.m. $6/member, $8/nonmember. Explore a part of art. Ages 2-5 with caregiver. Purchase tickets online. ncartmuseum.org.

5 WEDNESDAY Lil Cooks in the Kitchen: Grinch Stole Christmas. Herbert C. Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. 4-5:30 p.m. $23/resident, $30/ nonresident. Discover the joy of cooking with storybook characters. Ages 3-5 with parent. Register online. Choose course #116735. classweb.townofcary.org. Nature Watchers: Forever Green. Crowder County Park, 4709 Ten-Ten Rd., Apex. 11 a.m.-noon. $4/child. Use your five senses during a stroll around the park and by doing an art project. Read “The Sheltering Cedar” by Anne Marshall Runyon. Ages 3-5 with adult. Register online. wakegov.com/parks/crowder.

7 FRIDAY Calling for Owls. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 4:30-6 p.m. $3/child. Ages 3-5 with adult will learn about the owls that live in and around the preserve. Hear an owl story, make a craft and go outside to call owls. Register online. Choose course #228008. reclink.raleighnc.gov. Lil Cooks in the Kitchen: Grinch Stole Christmas. See Dec. 5. 10-11:30 a.m.

8 SATURDAY Explore a Rock Outcrop. Wilkerson Nature Preserve, 5229 Awls Haven Dr., Raleigh. 2-4 p.m. $5/child. Ages 8-13 learn all about rocks and take home a few for their collection. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Register online. Choose course #228261. reclink.raleighnc.gov. Gingerbread House Decorating Workshops. Family Preschool, 4907 Garrett Rd., Durham. $40/family. Make gingerbread houses. Workshops take place at 2 and 4:30 p.m. An allergy-free workshop takes place at 11 a.m. Online registration required. familypreschool.org/gingerbread.

Grinch Candy Cane Hunt. Bond Park, 801 High House Rd., Cary. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $10/child. Help find candy canes hidden in Bond Park before the Grinch turns them green. Ages 6-12. Registration required online. Choose course #116196. The rain date is Dec. 15. townofcary.org. Jolly Elf Trail Run. WakeMed Soccer Park, 201 Soccer Park Dr., Cary. All ages. 8:15 a.m. $10-$35/person. Take part in a 1.25mile race, a 5K or a kids’ dash to benefit St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School. Register online. jollyelfrun.com. Winter Wildlife Wonderland. Stevens Nature Center/Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary. 1-5 p.m. $26/resident, $34/nonresident. Kids enjoy nature activities. Ages 6-10. Register online. Choose course #117091. classweb.townofcary.org.

9 SUNDAY Hemlock Nature Quest: Nocturnal Wildlife. Stevens Nature Center/ Hemlock Bluffs, 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd., Raleigh. 4-6 p.m. $12/resident, $16/ nonresident. Search for owls and other active wildlife after the sun sets. Ages 13-15. Register online. Choose course #117116. classweb.townofcary.org.

10 MONDAY Santa Claus Painting and Pizza Party. Little Guru Kids Yoga and Creative Arts, 215 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. 4:30-6 p.m. $35/child. Enjoy a painting workshop

CALENDAR POLICY The Carolina Parent calendar lists local and regional activities for children and families. Visit carolinaparent.com/calendar to submit an event for consideration by the 6th of the month for the next month's issue. Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. This calendar may include some events not intended for young children. Find more events at carolinaparent.com/calendar.

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